Perfusionist

Duties and Responsibilities:
Perfusionists operate circulation equipment when it is necessary to replace the patient’s circulatory or respiratory functions. This is most common in heart surgery and similar operations. Perfusionists also control the temperature of the patients during surgery. Their duties include:
• Operating heart and lung machines
• Administering some types of anesthesia
• Administering some types of medication
Average salary:
$50,000
Education Requirements:
A high school diploma with strong background in biology and chemistry is required to be accepted in Perfusionist training programs. Admission preference is given to students with college science work or experience in respiratory therapy and medical terminology.