Perfusionists operate heart-lung machines—the equipment that replaces a patient’s circulatory and respiratory functions during open-heart surgery. This includes the following responsibilities, as directed by the heart surgeon:
- redirecting the circulation of a patient’s blood outside of the body and through artificial organs (heart, lung, and kidney)
- administering medications to stop the heart and protect it while it is stopped
- monitoring and managing the patient’s breathing and circulation
- re-starting the heart and circulation after surgery
- providing expertise in devices such as artificial hearts and lungs
Salary and Projected Growth
Median salary: $136,093 in the U.S.
Salary range: $104,000-$180,000 in the U.S.
Salaries in NY are expected to be higher
Projected growth: faster than average
Where Could I Work?
Hospitals
Colleges and universities
Research and development
Your Interests and Abilities
Basic and medical sciences
Manual and technical skills
Participation in surgical procedures
Professional Skills
Concern for others
Attention to detail
Communication
Mental and physical endurance
Education
Bachelor’s or higher degree in a Department-registered perfusion licensure program, a Commission of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) accredited perfusion program, or an equivalent program.
Examination
Certification exam of the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion.
What Interests You?
Match your interests and personality to career options! Explore a free career tool at mynextmove.org/explore/ip
Tip: try searching for mentoring programs—talk to a perfusionist about what they do and how they got started!
