Lung Perfusionist: Role, Responsibilities & Career Path

A lung perfusionist, also referred to as a clinical or cardio-pulmonary perfusionist, operates the heart and lung machines during medical procedures, when a patient is required to go on cardiopulmonary bypass.

Education

• Perfusionists are required to have a bachelor's or master's degree in science and mathematics. Perfusionists are required to have a Certified Clinical Perfusionist credential from the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion.

Function

• Perfusionists set up and operate the heart lung machine. They are responsible to regulate a patient's blood circulation and composition, control the patient's body temperature and give medications, blood products, and anesthetic agents as needed.

Geography

• Perfusionists work in hospital operating rooms. Standing for six to eight hours a day may be required during an operation or procedure.

Salary

• As of April, 2009, a cardio-pulmonary perfusionist in the U.S. earns an average salary of $107,118. Salary is based on years of experience, credentials, job location and employer.

Considerations

• Perfusionists work closely with physicians, nurses, and operating room personnel. You must be able to communicate with the operating team on the condition of the patient during the procedure. Due to the nature of the critical operations and procedures, perfusionists are under a high level of stress.