Perfusionist

The Perfusionist is responsible for the knowledge, operation, and maintenance of a wide variety of technical perfusion equipment utilized in cardiac surgery, as well as other circulatory support devices, and works in close cooperation with the attending physician in extra-corporeal perfusion practices. The primary working area is the cardiovascular operating room; however the possibility exists of working in other areas within the Health System.

This position must travel and take call for multiple hospitals. Additional duties include ECMO coverage and in/out of hospital ECMO transport.

Responsibilities

• Prepares for Cases: Selects necessary supplies for the procedure, and appropriately assembles and prepares all perfusion equipment (including, but not limited to: cardiopulmonary bypass system, cardioplegia delivery system, ultrafiltration, autotransfusion, etc.).
• Perfusion record, worksheet and related paperwork are accurately completed and an appropriate action is formulated based on the individual patient condition (including, but not limited to: knowledge of patient's history, pre-op status, lab and cardiac cath. reports, etc.).
• Awareness of the hazards of body fluids, proper precautions and disposition of soiled equipment in a proper place is demonstrated in daily practice.
• Manages the equipment and supply maintenance: Equipment is cleaned in an appropriate and timely manner.
• Equipment is maintained in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.
• Appropriate supplies in perfusion carts are maintained.
• Supplies are tracked within the department and apprises the appropriate personnel of inventory level.
• Performs those functions necessary for the support, treatment, measurement, and/or supplementation of the cardiopulmonary and/or circulatory system of the patient.
• A working knowledge of cardiopulmonary bypass equipment, anatomy, physiology, physics and mechanics of cardiopulmonary bypass is demonstrated on a daily basis.
• Critical situations pertaining to support, treatment, measurement, and/or supplementation of the cardiopulmonary and/or circulatory system of the patient are recognized and reacted to in an appropriate manner, including proper communication with the attending surgeon.
• Appropriate changes are made, as needed, in therapy when presented with changing conditions, including administration of medication, anesthetic gases and blood components.
• Aspects of cardiopulmonary bypass are documented in an appropriate and timely manner.
• A working knowledge of cardioplegia delivery systems, including antegrade, retrograde and cerebral perfusion.
• All perfusion equipment and supplies necessary for the procedure are assembled and prepared according to policy and procedure.
• A working knowledge of autotransfusion is safely demonstrated on a daily basis.
• A working knowledge of the anatomy, physiology, physics and mechanics of an intra-aortic balloon pump is routinely demonstrated.
• Aspects of support, treatment, measurement, and/or supplementation of the cardiopulmonary and/or circulatory system are documented in an appropriate and timely manner.
• A working knowledge of the anatomy, physiology, physics and mechanics of ventricular assist devices are routinely demonstrated.
• A working knowledge of the anatomy, physiology, physics and mechanics of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is routinely demonstrated.
• A working knowledge of the Blood Gas analyzer, including Quality Control, is routinely demonstrated.
• A working knowledge of the Activated Clotting Time machine, including Quality Control, is routinely demonstrated.
• Communicates appropriately using good interpersonal skills: Positive, professional demeanor is projected through verbal and non-verbal communications.
• Information for patients and staff is delivered in a manner that is supportive, timely and understandable.
• Interpersonal conflicts are resolved using appropriate methods and organizational resources, including but not limited to Employee Relations Services and Faculty Employee Assistance Program.
• Diverse perspectives are acknowledged; language and behaviors are modeled that build inclusiveness in the work environment.
• Ideas and suggestions are clearly communicated.
• Clarification of communication is requested when appropriate.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Complies with all WellStar Health System policies, standards of work, and code of conduct.