Role Summary
The Cardiac Perfusionist is responsible for managing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and other extracorporeal circulation techniques during cardiac and major vascular surgeries. They ensure the safe and effective circulation of blood, oxygenation, and maintenance of physiological balance while the heart is temporarily stopped.
Key Responsibilities1. Pre-operative Duties
- Review patient medical history and surgical plan with the cardiac surgical team
- Prepare and check the heart-lung machine and associated equipment
- Select appropriate cannulation and perfusion strategies
- Ensure availability of blood products, medications, and disposables
2. Intra-operative Duties
- Operate the heart-lung (cardiopulmonary bypass) machine
- Monitor and control:
- Blood flow rates
- Oxygenation and gas exchange
- Blood pressure and temperature
- Acid-base balance and electrolytes
- Administer anticoagulants (e.g., heparin) and reversal agents as directed
- Deliver cardioplegia solution to stop and protect the heart
- Respond rapidly to emergencies (e.g., air embolism, equipment failure)
3. Post-operative Duties
- Gradually wean the patient off bypass
- Ensure haemodynamic stability during transition
- Document perfusion data and procedures accurately
- Assist with post-operative evaluation and quality assurance
Role Requirements (Complexity & Caseload)
- Operates the heart-lung (cardiopulmonary bypass) machine independently during procedures
- Manages a caseload involving major and complex cardiac surgeries, including but not limited to:
- Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)
- Valve repair and replacement
- Aortic surgery and other high-risk procedures
- Works in a high-acuity, time-critical environment requiring rapid clinical decision-making
- Supports multiple cases per list where required, depending on theatre scheduling and service demand
- Adapts perfusion strategies to meet individual patient physiology and surgical complexity
Additional Responsibilities
- Maintain and calibrate perfusion equipment
- Participate in clinical audits, governance, and research
- Support teaching and supervision of trainees/students
- Keep up to date with advances in perfusion practice
- Adhere to infection prevention, safety, and NHS policies
Skills and Competencies
- Strong knowledge of cardiovascular physiology and pharmacology
- Technical expertise in perfusion equipment
- High attention to detail and patient safety focus
- Ability to remain calm under pressure
- Effective communication and multidisciplinary teamwork
Qualifications and Requirements
- Degree in Perfusion Science, Biomedical Science, or related field
- Accredited training in cardiac perfusion
- Registration with the Society of Clinical Perfusion Scientists of Great Britain and Ireland
- Evidence of continuing professional development (CPD)
Working Pattern & Pay
- Shift Times: 07:30 – 18:00
- Pay Rate: £1000 per day
- Participation in on-call rota for emergency cardiac surgery may be required
Work Environment
- Cardiac operating theatres and critical care settings at Royal Sussex County Hospital
- Involvement in complex and high-acuity procedures
Pay: £1,000.00 per day
Experience:
- Spectrum : 1 year (required)
Work Location: In person
