A perfusion technology program is a type of educational program that focuses on the study of perfusion, which is the process of pumping blood through the circulatory system of the body. This can include the use of various medical devices and techniques, such as heart-lung machines and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Graduates of a perfusion technology program typically become certified perfusionists, who work alongside surgeons and other medical professionals in the operating room to support the circulatory needs of patients during surgery and other procedures.
Perfusion technology programs are typically offered at the graduate level and are most commonly found in universities and colleges that have a strong focus on medical education. Some programs may be offered as a Master’s degree, while others may be a certificate program.
The program curriculum typically includes coursework in areas such as anatomy and physiology, medical physics, pharmacology, and perfusion equipment and techniques. In addition to classroom instruction, students in a perfusion technology program will also participate in laboratory work and clinical rotations to gain hands-on experience working with patients.
Upon graduation, students must then pass a national certification examination offered by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) to become a certified perfusionist.
You should check with the specific institution for more details about the program such as prerequisites, duration and tuition.
Perfusion technology programs are typically structured as a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and clinical rotations.
In the classroom, students will take courses that cover the essential knowledge and skills needed to become a perfusionist. These courses may include anatomy, physiology, medical physics, pharmacology, and perfusion equipment and techniques. Students will also learn about the various medical devices and techniques used in perfusion, such as heart-lung machines and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).
In the laboratory, students will have the opportunity to practice and hone their skills using simulation equipment and other training resources. This will help them become proficient in the use of perfusion equipment and techniques before they begin working with patients in a clinical setting.
During clinical rotations, students will gain hands-on experience working with patients under the supervision of experienced perfusionists. These rotations will take place in a variety of settings, such as operating rooms, cardiac catheterization labs, and intensive care units.
The program is typically completed with a final examination and the graduates are required to pass a national certification examination offered by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) to become a certified perfusionist.
It’s important to check with the specific institution for more details about the program such as prerequisites, duration and tuition.
