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Job Purpose
The Perfusionist is responsible for operating extracorporeal circulation equipment during
medical procedures requiring cardiopulmonary bypass, such as open-heart surgeries.
The role ensures safe, effective, and continuous support of the patient’s cardiac and respiratory functions
during surgery and in critical care settings. The Perfusionist also supports quality improvement,
education, and inventory management initiatives related to perfusion services
Key Responsibilities
- Assemble, operate, and monitor heart-lung machines and extracorporeal circuits during
cardiothoracic surgeries. - Monitor vital parameters and manage blood pressure, blood flow, oxygenation, and fluid
balance throughout procedures. - Administer medications, blood products, and cardioplegia solutions during surgeries.
- Perform point-of-care testing, including blood gas and coagulation monitoring during
bypass procedures. - Calibrate and maintain perfusion-related equipment including heater-coolers, NIRS, and
intra-aortic balloon pumps. - Conduct pre-operative equipment checks and participate in patient evaluations for cardiac
surgery. - Maintain accurate and complete intraoperative perfusion records and documentation.
- Perform ultrafiltration and other techniques for volume management during and after
bypass. - Collaborate with the surgical and anaesthesia teams using clear and structured
communication (e.g., SBAR). - Manage perfusion-related inventory, including disposable circuits, cannulae, and
essential components. - Provide clinical instruction and mentorship to perfusion students and trainees.
- Participate in continuous quality improvement (CQI), theatre audits, and transfusion
committees. - Ensure compliance with hospital policies, clinical protocols, and applicable regulatory
requirements. - Support emergency cardiac surgery and call rotations as scheduled.
- Advocate for patient safety and the availability of perfusion-related supplies and
equipment.
