Quinnipiac University Cardiovascular Perfusion Program

Quinnipiac’s MHS in cardiovascular perfusion is one of only eight perfusion graduate-level programs in the United States. Our rigorous academic and clinical courses prepare students for the varied responsibilities of a clinical perfusionist.

The perfusionist provides consultation to the physician in the selection of the appropriate equipment and techniques to be used during extracorporeal circulation. During cardiopulmonary bypass, the perfusionist provides life support to the patient while the heart and lungs are stopped to enable the surgeon to operate. Perfusionists administer blood products, anesthetic agents and drugs through the extracorporeal circuit. The perfusionist is responsible for the induction of hypothermia and other duties, when required. Perfusionists have a role in the implementation and operation of ventricular assist devices designed to provide long-term circulatory support for the failing heart.

Individuals interested in becoming a perfusionist should have intelligence, dexterity and mechanical aptitude and be able to concentrate intensely for long periods of time. Other important personal qualities include a strong sense of responsibility, the ability to work well with people as well as the ability to work effectively in emergency situations. Perfusionists often work under very stressful conditions. The hours are long, and the situations are life and death. A perfusionist must be emotionally stable and able (mentally and physically) to react effectively to all situations in the operating room.

This program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Committee—Perfusion Education (6663 S. Sycamore St., Littleton, CO 80120) under the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.