The Perfusion Assistant Micro-credential provides healthcare professionals with the foundational knowledge and hands-on experience needed to support cardiovascular perfusion procedures. Participants will learn the core responsibilities of a perfusion assistant, including preparing equipment, assisting during surgery, and supporting post-operative care.

This 13-week program consists of 12 weeks of online learning, combining both synchronous and asynchronous sessions for a total of three (3) hours per week. The final week includes three (3) days of in-person hands-on simulated experience to apply the knowledge and skills gained throughout the course.

The curriculum emphasizes collaboration with the surgical team, adherence to safety protocols, and the use of specialized equipment such as cardiopulmonary bypass machines, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) systems and cell salvage devices.

As participants are supported by employers, there is an expectation that knowledge and skill acquired will be incorporated into opportunities to practice and demonstrate within the lab.

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Understand the structure and function of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) equipment and systems
• Demonstrate proficiency in assisting perfusionists before, during and post-surgical procedures
• Manage administrative and logistical duties related to perfusion
• Safely support the setup and use of perfusion-related equipment (IABP, Cell Savers, VAD)
• Collaborate with the team in ECMO-related emergency response and care