Guide on Becoming a Perfusionist

Perfusionists play a vital role in medical settings like operating rooms and hospitals. Becoming a perfusionist involves completing four to seven years of education, gaining hands-on clinical experience, and passing required exams. After meeting these criteria, you can pursue job opportunities in this fulfilling field.

Take Advanced High School Courses - Enroll in advanced chemistry, biology, and communication classes. Maintaining a high GPA and engaging in extracurricular activities can enhance your college prospects.

Enroll in a Perfusion Science Undergraduate Program - Choose from one of the four accredited schools offering perfusion science programs in the US: Rush University, University of Pittsburgh, SUNY Upstate Medical University, or The Medical University of South Carolina. Complete 60 semester hours of college coursework and apply for the perfusion science specialization after two years of rigorous science studies.

Pursue a Related Undergraduate Degree if Necessary - If you cannot attend a school offering perfusion science programs, consider earning a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, math, or pre-med. This, combined with a master's degree or graduate certificate, can qualify you for a perfusion career.

Complete a Perfusion Certificate or Master's Program - If your undergraduate degree is in a related field, opt for a 2-year perfusion certificate program or a 2-3 year Master's in Science perfusion program. Ensure the program is accredited and start the application process well in advance.

Gain Experience Through Internships and Volunteer Work - Seek opportunities in hospitals or medical settings to enhance your comfort level and boost your resume. Consult with professors, explore professional associations, and reach out to local medical centers for potential positions.

Complete 75 Perfusion Procedures During Clinical Training - As part of your program, you'll engage in hands-on perfusion procedures. Start by shadowing a perfusionist, then perform procedures under supervision. Clinical training is mandatory and involves completing at least 75 procedures to qualify for certification by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP).

Pass the Written Perfusion Basic Science Exam - To become a Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP), you must pass a two-part exam by the ABCP. The Perfusion Basic Science Exam is the first part, covering math and science. You're eligible for this exam after graduating from or enrolling in a perfusion education program and completing the 75 clinical perfusion procedures.

Pass the Hands-on Clinical Applications in Perfusion Exam - The second part of the ABCP exam, this requires 50 additional perfusion procedures post-graduation. The exam includes written and hands-on components to demonstrate competence. Hospitals may hire provisional perfusionists after the first part, with the option to complete the second part after employment.

Regularly Check Major Job Websites - Monitor sites like Monster, CareerBuilder, Indeed, SimplyHired, and Craigslist daily for new perfusionist job postings. Some sites offer email alerts for new job listings, making it easier to stay updated.

Check Classified Ads in Your Local Newspaper - Your local paper often advertises job openings, particularly in healthcare. Keep an eye on the classified ads section, especially in the Sunday edition, for opportunities at nearby hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Directly Contact Hospitals and Healthcare Providers - Visit hospital websites to view their job listings or contact their Human Resources department for information on job openings in your area.

Create a Resume Emphasizing Your Qualifications and Experience - Highlight your education, board certification, and medical work experience at the top of your resume. Include details such as interpersonal communication skills, medical internships or volunteer work, specific coursework, GPA, and any relevant awards or honors.

Network Within the Medical Community - Connect with successful medical professionals, including perfusionists, through networking. Utilize your existing connections, like professors or internship supervisors, and online platforms such as LinkedIn to reach out to perfusionists for advice and insight into the field.