Perfusion
A perfusionist operates the heart-lung machine during cardiac surgeries and other procedures requiring cardiopulmonary bypass. Their primary responsibility is to maintain the patient's circulation and oxygenation while the heart is stopped, allowing the surgeon to perform intricate procedures on the heart or other organs. Perfusionists carefully monitor the patient's vital signs, blood flow, oxygen levels, and electrolyte balance throughout the procedure, adjusting the settings of the heart-lung machine as needed to support the patient's physiological needs.
Perfusionists work closely with cardiac surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and other members of the surgical team to ensure safe and effective perfusion support for patients undergoing cardiac surgery or other complex procedures requiring cardiopulmonary bypass.