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Ava
Student
Fishers, Indiana
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How do I become a cardiovascular technician/ perfusionist?
I am a Junior in high school and am now looking into college, I want to know what schools would have the right courses to help put me on the right track towards my goal.
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Joe L.
Program Manager
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Houston, Texas
Updated
Joe’s Answer
Becoming a cardiovascular technician or a perfusionist requires a specific educational path and training. Here's a general guide on how to pursue these career paths:
Cardiovascular Technician:
Education: Most cardiovascular technicians have an associate's degree in cardiovascular technology or a related field. Some programs may offer a bachelor's degree. Look for accredited programs that provide hands-on training and clinical experience.
Certification: While certification isn't always required, it can enhance your job prospects and earning potential. The Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) offers certifications such as the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) and the Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS).
Clinical Experience: Many programs include clinical rotations, which give you practical experience working with patients and using cardiovascular equipment.
Licensure: Depending on the state you plan to work in, you may need to obtain a license. Requirements vary by state, so make sure to research the regulations in your area.
Skills: Cardiovascular technicians need strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a fast-paced medical environment.
Perfusionist:
Education: To become a perfusionist, you typically need to complete a Bachelor's degree followed by a perfusion-specific training program. Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accreditation Committee for Perfusion Education (ACPE).
Perfusion Program: Perfusionist training programs usually last about two years and consist of both didactic (classroom) learning and clinical experience. This training covers the operation of heart-lung machines and other equipment used during open-heart surgeries.
Certification: After completing a perfusion program, you'll need to become certified to practice. The American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) offers the Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP) certification.
Clinical Experience: Clinical experience is a significant part of perfusion training. You'll gain hands-on experience working in operating rooms alongside medical teams during surgeries.
Skills: Perfusionists need strong critical thinking skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain composed under pressure.
Continuing Education: Both cardiovascular technicians and perfusionists should stay updated with the latest advancements in their field through continuing education and professional development.
Important Steps for Both Career Paths:
Research: Start by researching schools or programs that offer the education and training you need. Check their accreditation and reputation.
Prerequisites: Make sure you meet the prerequisites for the programs you're interested in. These might include specific coursework, GPA requirements, and letters of recommendation.
Application: Apply to the programs of your choice. Be prepared to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and possibly complete an interview.
Financial Aid: Explore scholarship, grant, and loan options to help finance your education.
Gain Experience: If possible, gain relevant experience through internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs in healthcare settings.
Networking: Build connections with professionals in the field, attend conferences, and join relevant associations to stay informed and make valuable contacts.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with industry trends and advancements in cardiovascular technology and perfusion through publications, conferences, and online resources.
Remember that both of these career paths involve working in medical settings and may require being on-call or working irregular hours. It's important to thoroughly research and understand the demands of the profession before committing to this career.
Cardiovascular Technician:
Education: Most cardiovascular technicians have an associate's degree in cardiovascular technology or a related field. Some programs may offer a bachelor's degree. Look for accredited programs that provide hands-on training and clinical experience.
Certification: While certification isn't always required, it can enhance your job prospects and earning potential. The Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) offers certifications such as the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) and the Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS).
Clinical Experience: Many programs include clinical rotations, which give you practical experience working with patients and using cardiovascular equipment.
Licensure: Depending on the state you plan to work in, you may need to obtain a license. Requirements vary by state, so make sure to research the regulations in your area.
Skills: Cardiovascular technicians need strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well in a fast-paced medical environment.
Perfusionist:
Education: To become a perfusionist, you typically need to complete a Bachelor's degree followed by a perfusion-specific training program. Look for programs accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) or the Accreditation Committee for Perfusion Education (ACPE).
Perfusion Program: Perfusionist training programs usually last about two years and consist of both didactic (classroom) learning and clinical experience. This training covers the operation of heart-lung machines and other equipment used during open-heart surgeries.
Certification: After completing a perfusion program, you'll need to become certified to practice. The American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) offers the Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP) certification.
Clinical Experience: Clinical experience is a significant part of perfusion training. You'll gain hands-on experience working in operating rooms alongside medical teams during surgeries.
Skills: Perfusionists need strong critical thinking skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain composed under pressure.
Continuing Education: Both cardiovascular technicians and perfusionists should stay updated with the latest advancements in their field through continuing education and professional development.
Important Steps for Both Career Paths:
Research: Start by researching schools or programs that offer the education and training you need. Check their accreditation and reputation.
Prerequisites: Make sure you meet the prerequisites for the programs you're interested in. These might include specific coursework, GPA requirements, and letters of recommendation.
Application: Apply to the programs of your choice. Be prepared to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and possibly complete an interview.
Financial Aid: Explore scholarship, grant, and loan options to help finance your education.
Gain Experience: If possible, gain relevant experience through internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs in healthcare settings.
Networking: Build connections with professionals in the field, attend conferences, and join relevant associations to stay informed and make valuable contacts.
Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with industry trends and advancements in cardiovascular technology and perfusion through publications, conferences, and online resources.
Remember that both of these career paths involve working in medical settings and may require being on-call or working irregular hours. It's important to thoroughly research and understand the demands of the profession before committing to this career.