HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
The usual pathway can vary by employer and province, but the verified records show that clinical perfusionists generally need education in science or a health-related field and specialized perfusion training. In New Brunswick, the records say a bachelor’s degree in a science or health-related field, graduation from an accredited clinical perfusion program, and certification by the Canadian Society of Clinical Perfusionists are required. In Ontario, certification is required, while the occupation is not provincially regulated. Students can prepare by taking science courses in high school, building strong study habits, and learning about anatomy, physiology, and medical technology.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Assemble, maintain and operate extracorporeal circulation equipment, intra-aortic balloon pumps and other heart assist devices to support or temporarily replace patients' cardiopulmonary functions during open-heart surgery
- Administer blood products, drugs and other substances through heart-lung machines and other devices as directed by cardiac surgeons and anaesthetists
- Monitor vital signs to maintain patients' physiological functions during cardiopulmonary surgery
- Supervise and train student clinical perfusionists and other clinical perfusionists.
A DAY IN THE LIFE
What a day can include
A clinical perfusionist’s day often centres on one or more surgeries. Before the operation begins, they check and prepare the heart-lung machine and other support equipment so everything is ready for use. During surgery, they stay focused on the patient’s vital signs and the team’s instructions, making careful adjustments to keep circulation and body functions supported. They may give blood products or other substances through the machine as directed by the surgeon or anaesthetist. The work demands concentration, calm communication, and quick responses when the patient’s needs change. After surgery, they help make sure equipment is maintained and ready for the next case.
SKILLS TO BUILD