Perfusionist
Career Description
A perfusionist operates and monitors equipment that handles the patient’s extracorporeal (outside of the body) circulation and respiratory systems. Perfusionists work closely with physicians to monitor a patient’s life support during various medical procedures. They may administer blood products, anesthetic agents or drugs when necessary. They are knowledgeable about the various equipment that is used in these procedures, as well as the circulation and respiratory systems of the human body.
Annual Salary
| Entry: $73,590 | Midpoint: $94,619 | Experienced: $115,918 |
| Source: Compdata Survey, Kansas City and St. Louis, Salary Data, 2004 | ||
Hourly Wage
| Entry: $35.38 | Midpoint: $45.49 | Experienced: $55.73 |
| Source: Compdata Survey, Kansas City and St. Louis, Salary Data, 2004 | ||
Academic Requirements
Certificate programs in extracorporeal technology usually require a bachelor’s degree. Other prerequisites can include a background in medical terminology, respiratory therapy or nursing. These programs usually last one to two years.
Schools
Visit the International Perfusion Association to view a list of schools with perfusion programs.
Professional Associations
National
American Academy of Cardiovascular Perfusion
American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion
State
Missouri State Advisory Commission for Clinical Perfusionist
The Missouri Perfusion Society
