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Perfusionists

Overview

Perfusionists, formerly known as cardiovascular perfusionists or clinical perfusionists, play a crucial role in the field of cardiovascular surgery. They operate what is known as the "heart-lung machine," among other duties. The perfusionist is responsible for all aspects of the heart-lung machine whenever it becomes necessary to interrupt or replace the functioning of the heart by circulating blood outside of a patient's body. There are approximately 4,400 perfusionists employed in the United States.

Salary Range

$100,000+

Minimum Education Level

Bachelor's Degree

Certification/License

Recommended

Outlook

Faster than the Average
Personality Traits

Hands On

Problem-Solving

Scientific

Career Ladder
Senior Perfusionist

Perfusionist

Cardiovascular Technician

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