Purpose:

As assigned, a perfusionist performs, under the supervision of a licensed physician and according to prescribed procedures, those functions necessary for the support and treatment of the cardiopulmonary system of a patient. A perfusionist performs advanced technical work in the selection, preparation, operation, and maintenance of the heart/lung machine and accessory equipment. . The work area is primarily the operating room but the possibility exists for working throughout the hospital.

Responsibilities:

• Maintain proficiency with accessory equipment and procedures.

• Perform duties and responsibilities according to the philosophy and standards of UPMC including conveying courtesy, respect, enthusiasm, and positive attitude in work situations with patients, peers, medical staff, and visitors.

• Administer medications, blood components, and anesthetic agents under the supervision by the attending physicians.

• Perform equipment maintenance checklists as required.

• Provide perfusion support for non-cardiac procedures such as: transplantation, chemoperfusion, ECMO, cardiac support devices, component therapy, and blood recovery.

• Assist in the evaluation of new equipment.

• If employed at UPMC facility, serve as instructor/supervisor to UPMC School of Cardiovascular Perfusion

• Participate in on-call schedule per institutional policy.

• Safely conduct perfusion scope of practice.

• Make appropriate changes in therapy after consultation with the attending physician(s).

• Maintain equipment and supplies.

• Perform documentation associated with described responsibilities.

• If employed at UPMC facility, participate with coverage and call for STAT MedEvac responsibilities.

• Support continuing education and research as required by the perfusionist's scope of practice.

• Instruct students, residents and others in new procedures and equipment.

• Participate as assigned with the ordering and maintenance of supplies..

• Participate with development and revision of: policy and procedure, performance improvement, quality management, and staff education.

• Assists other staff members and hospital personnel in completion of needed tasks; and makes patient care and/or interdepartmental service the number one priority.

• Graduation from a CAAHEP accredited school of cardiovascular perfusion

• OR met Grandfather Clause of the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion and Licensing Board of US state where practicing.

Licensure, Certifications, and Clearances:

• Certified or certification-eligible as per guidelines of the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion Certification by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion within 24 months of hire date.

• Active licensure in US state where practicing required.

• CPR required based on AHA standards that include both a didactic and skills demonstration component within 30 days of hire

• American Board Cardiovascular Perfusionist

• Basic Life Support (BLS) OR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

• Cardiopulmonary Perfusionist OR Osteopathic Perfusionist OR Temporary Practice Permit (TPP)

• Act 33 with renewal

• Act 34 with renewal

• Act 73 FBI Clearance with renewal

• UPMC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran

• Individuals hired into this role must comply with UPMC’s COVID vaccination requirements upon beginning employment with UPMC. Refer to the COVID-19 Vaccination Information section at the top of this page to learn more.