Cardiovascular Perfusionist - University Health Network, Toronto

About the role

UHN perfusion services support Toronto is biggest and busiest suite of ORs, conducting 1,750 cardiac surgeries each year. The perfusion department is actively involved in transplant programs for heart, lungs, and liver, as well as organ regeneration, ECLS, and ventricular assist device programs. Our suite of ORs incorporates state-of-the-art technology to assist surgical teams in handling the most complex cases in an environment where creativity and innovative case management are encouraged.

This position is a newly-unionized OPSEU position, and the collective agreement has not yet been negotiated or ratified. This is a talent pool posting for all current vacancies, and external applicants will be reviewed monthly to interview for all full-time, part-time, and temporary opportunities that arise in the next 12 months. Students with a set exam date are also welcome to apply.

Responsibilities

Perfusionists maintain and optimize circulatory support and homeostasis for patients requiring cardiopulmonary bypass during cardiovascular procedures.

• Maintains and optimizes circulatory support and homeostasis of patients requiring cardiopulmonary bypass in cardiac and non-cardiac procedures by utilizing theoretical knowledge and technical skills to assemble, calibrate and operate the heart lung machine
• Assembles, operates, and monitors myocardial preservation during CPB
• Accesses the needs of patients and independently respond to and deliver appropriate therapies
• Provides additional therapeutic services such as administering under prescription various medical gases, anesthetics, drugs, blood products, and crystalloid solutions
• Performs induced hypothermia and hemodilution of various degrees
• Operates and monitors ventricular assist devices
• Performs isolated chemotherapeutic limb perfusion and more
• Demonstrates and understands operational theory, procedures, and performance characteristics of equipment to facilitate effective and efficient operation according to patient requirements
• Ensures the quality of practice and safety standards is maintained
• Utilizes specialized knowledge to participate in professional development, teaching, and education activities within perfusion services

Skills and experience

Candidates must meet minimum educational and certification requirements to qualify for these perfusion services roles.

• Completion of a BSc degree with a diploma in Cardiovascular Perfusion at minimum
• Certification or eligibility for certification with the Canadian Society of Clinical Perfusion or American Board of Clinical Perfusion
• Thorough knowledge of the theory and practice procedures, instruments, equipment, and special techniques
• Specialized knowledge of extracorporeal physiology and mechanics for both adult and pediatric patients
• Knowledge of applicable hospital and departmental policies, procedures, guidelines, protocols, and practices
• Excellent judgement, problem recognition, and problem-solving skills
• Effective time management skills with the ability to organize work and set priorities for self and others
• Highly developed expertise and effective communication with other health team members for frequent, critical decisions during bypass or related procedures
• Ability to work effectively and accurately while adapting under stressful conditions in a fast-paced team environment
• Demonstrated interest in continuing education

Perks and benefits

Working at UHN provides access to a comprehensive range of benefits, programs, and perks designed to support healthcare professionals throughout their careers.

• Competitive offer packages
• Membership in the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan
• Close access to transit and UHN shuttle service
• A flexible work environment
• Opportunities for development and promotions within a large organization
• Additional corporate discounts including travel, restaurants, parking, phone plans, auto insurance discounts, and on-site gyms