Senior Cardiovascular Perfusionist

About the role

The Senior Cardiovascular Perfusionist is responsible for operating the heart‑lung machine and providing perfusion support during cardiac and non‑cardiac surgeries. The role requires strict adherence to sterile techniques, precise management of blood flow, pressure, and temperature, and close collaboration with surgeons and anesthetists.

Key responsibilities

• Operate and monitor the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) circuit, including priming for adults, pediatrics, and infants.
• Prepare and add drugs to priming solutions according to protocol and anesthetist instructions.
• Assemble additional equipment such as intra‑aortic balloon pumps (IABP) and suction devices as required.
• Verify sterility, expiration dates, and integrity of disposables, fluids, and drugs before use.
• Maintain appropriate blood flow, pressure, and oxygenation throughout bypass, adjusting for patient age and clinical condition.
• Regulate patient temperature using cooling and re‑warming gradients while preventing emboli formation.
• Dispose of waste and contaminated materials following color‑coded safety procedures.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in cardiovascular perfusion, preferably in a senior capacity.
• Strong knowledge of cardiac surgery protocols and patient safety standards.
• Ability to work under pressure and make rapid, accurate calculations.
• Excellent attention to detail and commitment to infection control.

Required skills

• Heart‑lung machine operation
• Cardiopulmonary bypass circuit assembly
• Priming protocols for adult, pediatric, and infant patients
• Drug preparation and dosing for perfusion
• Intra‑aortic balloon pump (IABP) handling
• Suction pump operation
• Blood flow and pressure calculation
• Temperature regulation during CPB
• Monitoring of perfusion parameters and inline devices