Job Summary

The Royal Columbian Hospital (RCH) in New Westminster British Columbia is a level 1 trauma center with 450 acute care beds and 12 OR’s. RCH is the primary acute care hospital within the Fraser Health region which services a population of 1.75 million people. RCH perform on average 970 open-heart cases per year. These are comprised of CABG’s, valve replacement/repairs, and complex aortic procedures. There are 13 perfusionists at RCH supporting all cardiac procedures including 170 IABP procedures, 435 cell savers and 20-30 ECLS cases per year. RCH is also the only 24/7 ECLS retrieval program in BC with custom built ECLS transport equipment designed for both ground and air transport. RCH is also a designated clinical training site for the BCIT perfusion technology program.

Detailed Overview

Under the general supervision of the Coordinator, Perfusion Services, Cardiac Anaesthetist and Cardiac Surgeon, provides technical support in the direct application of extracorporeal perfusion techniques. Monitors physiological responses of patients undergoing open heart surgery. Responsible for the operation of, repairs and maintenance to the related equipment.

Responsibilities

1. Assembles and operates extracorporeal equipment necessary to support or temporarily replace the patient's circulatory and respiratory functions. This equipment may include heart-lung machines, intra-aortic balloon devices, and precision blood pumps.
2. Manages myocardial perfusion and protection techniques including cardioplegia delivery systems, topical cooling pads and myocardial ischemia monitors.
3. Utilizes a variety of techniques such as hypothermia, haemodilution, haemoconcentration and autotransfusion as adjuncts to external circulation and support.
4. Monitors and manages the following: hemodynamic pressures, blood gases, anti-coagulation levels, electrocardiograph and coronary/systemic blood flow.
5. Administers blood products, drugs, anaesthesia vapours, crystalloid solutions and medical gases as directed by Cardiac Anaesthetists and surgeons.
6. Carries out various physiological measurements and calculations.
7. Carries out various calibration and maintenance duties as required. Maintains strict sterile technique.
8. Maintains accurate, legible records and statistics.
9. Participates in perfusion science and related medical research projects.
10. Participates in clinical teaching of perfusion students.
11. Performs other related duties as required.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

Graduation from a recognized program in Perfusion Science plus two years' recent related experience or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

Eligible for membership with the Canadian Society of Cardiovascular Perfusionists (CSCP) and/or American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion Certified.

Skills and Abilities

• Ability to operate related equipment.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to deal effectively with others.
• Ability to organize work.
• Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.