Top 10 Perfusionist Certifications

Certifications are important for perfusionists in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge about the field. Certification provides evidence that an individual has met professional standards and is qualified to perform certain procedures safely and effectively. Additionally, certifications can lead to higher pay and more opportunities for advancement in the field. In some cases, employers may require certification as a condition of employment. Finally, certifications can help individuals stay current with new developments in their field and keep their skills up-to-date.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Perfusionists and explain how they can help advance a perfusionist's career.

What are Perfusionist Certifications?

Perfusionist certification is a process by which a person becomes certified to practice as a perfusionist, or an individual who operates and maintains the heart-lung machine during cardiac surgery. To become certified, one must complete a four-year college degree in perfusion technology and pass the Certification Examination for Perfusionists (CPE). The CPE is administered by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP), an organization that sets standards for certification of perfusionists in the United States.

Achieving certification as a perfusionist provides many advantages to both employers and employees. Certified perfusionists are better prepared to provide safe and effective care during cardiac surgeries, as they have demonstrated expertise in their field through successful completion of the CPE. This can lead to improved patient outcomes and increased confidence among healthcare professionals in the operating room. Furthermore, certified perfusionists often receive higher salaries than those without certification due to their greater knowledge and experience. Finally, holding certification allows perfusionists to apply for positions at institutions that require it, thus providing them with more job opportunities than those without certification.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research and understand the requirements for becoming a certified perfusionist before you begin the process. This includes obtaining a bachelor’s degree in a science-related field, completing an accredited perfusion program, and passing the certification exam. Additionally, it is important to stay up-to-date on changes in the profession by attending conferences and other educational opportunities.

Related: What does a Perfusionist do?

Top 10 Perfusionist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Perfusionists today.

1. Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP) from the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion

Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP) from the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion is a certification that recognizes the highest level of professional achievement in the field of cardiovascular perfusion. It is awarded to perfusionists who have achieved advanced clinical and technical competency in the field of cardiovascular perfusion, as well as demonstrated ethical and professional behavior. The certification is valid for five years and must be renewed every five years in order to remain active.

In order to become certified, applicants must meet certain educational requirements, such as having a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field, and must have completed an accredited cardiovascular perfusion program. Applicants must also pass a written examination administered by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on factors such as whether or not you are already a member of the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion, but typically ranges between $500-$1,000 USD. The process can take up to several months depending on various factors such as how quickly you are able to complete your educational requirements and pass your written exam.

2. Certified Cardiothoracic Perfusionist (CTP) from the American Board of Thoracic Surgery

A Certified Cardiothoracic Perfusionist (CTP) from the American Board of Thoracic Surgery is a professional who specializes in operating and maintaining cardiopulmonary bypass systems during open-heart surgery. This certification is provided by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS), which is the only certifying body for cardiothoracic perfusionists in the United States.

In order to become certified, applicants must have completed an accredited perfusion education program, passed a written examination administered by ABTS, and met all other eligibility requirements. The process typically takes two years to complete and includes passing the written exam, completing clinical rotations, and obtaining a valid license from the state in which they plan to practice.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on individual circumstances. Generally speaking, applicants should expect to pay fees associated with their educational program as well as fees related to taking the written exam and obtaining licensure. Additionally, some states may require additional fees or exams prior to granting licensure.

Overall, becoming a Certified Cardiothoracic Perfusionist requires dedication and hard work but can be rewarding for those who are passionate about helping others through their specialized skillset.

3. Certified Pediatric Perfusionist (CPP) from the American Academy of Pediatrics

A Certified Pediatric Perfusionist (CPP) is a health care professional who specializes in providing life-saving and life-sustaining services to children with congenital heart defects, acquired heart diseases, and other cardiovascular conditions. The CPP certification is awarded by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and is recognized as the gold standard for pediatric perfusionists.

The CPP certification requires that applicants have a minimum of two years of experience as a pediatric perfusionist, or equivalent experience in an adult setting. They must also pass a written exam administered by the AAP. The exam consists of two parts: a multiple-choice section and an essay section. The multiple-choice section covers topics such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, patient assessment, equipment operation, and safety protocols. The essay portion focuses on case studies related to pediatric perfusion practice.

In order to apply for the CPP certification, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as transcripts from accredited schools of perfusion technology and proof of current CPR certification. Once the application has been approved by the AAP, applicants will be sent an invitation to take the written exam.

The cost of applying for the CPP certification varies depending on where you live and what type of support you need during your preparation process. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1000 to apply for the CPP certification including fees associated with taking the written exam.

4. Certified Extracorporeal Technology Specialist (CET) from the International Society for Extracorporeal Technology

The Certified Extracorporeal Technology Specialist (CET) is a certification program offered by the International Society for Extracorporeal Technology (ISET). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of extracorporeal technology. The CET certification is intended to demonstrate that an individual has achieved a certain level of proficiency in the field of extracorporeal technology, including both theoretical and practical aspects.

To become certified as a CET, an individual must first complete an application process. This includes submitting an application form, providing evidence of professional experience in the field, and passing a written examination. The written exam consists of multiple-choice questions on topics such as anatomy and physiology, cardiovascular physiology, extracorporeal circulation systems, patient care and safety, and other related topics.

It typically takes about three months for an individual to complete the application process and take the exam. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their official CET certification from ISET.

The cost for becoming certified as a CET varies depending on the country where you are located. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 to apply for the certification and take the exam.

5. Certified Surgical Technologist in Perfusion (CST-P) from the National Board for Certification in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting

A Certified Surgical Technologist in Perfusion (CST-P) is a credential awarded by the National Board for Certification in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). The CST-P credential is designed to recognize surgical technologists who have specialized knowledge and skills related to perfusion technology. Perfusionists are responsible for operating the heart-lung machine, monitoring vital signs during surgery, and managing anesthesia and other drugs used during surgery.

To become certified as a CST-P, applicants must meet certain educational requirements and pass an exam administered by the NBSTSA. Applicants must have successfully completed an accredited perfusion program or have at least five years of full-time experience as a practicing perfusionist. In addition, applicants must demonstrate that they possess the necessary knowledge and skills to perform safely in a perioperative setting.

The exam consists of 180 multiple choice questions covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, instrumentation, patient safety, infection control, and other relevant topics related to perfusion technology. The exam fee is $400 USD for members of the NBSTSA or $450 USD for nonmembers. The exam can be taken at any Prometric testing center located throughout the United States.

It typically takes 4-6 weeks to receive your results after taking the exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will receive your official CST-P certificate from the NBSTSA which is valid for 5 years before needing to be renewed.

6. Registered Respiratory Therapist in Cardiopulmonary Perfusion (RRT-CPP) from the National Board for Respiratory Care

Registered Respiratory Therapist in Cardiopulmonary Perfusion (RRT-CPP) is a credential offered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). It is designed to recognize the advanced knowledge and skills of respiratory therapists who have achieved a level of expertise in cardiopulmonary perfusion. The RRT-CPP credential requires successful completion of a comprehensive examination and demonstrates mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to practice as an independent practitioner in cardiopulmonary perfusion.

To get the RRT-CPP credential, applicants must first be certified as a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) by the NBRC. After that, they must also complete an accredited program in cardiopulmonary perfusion technology, which typically takes two years to complete. Once these requirements are met, applicants can then take the RRT-CPP exam.

The cost of taking the RRT-CPP exam varies depending on the testing location and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 to take the exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as application fees or travel expenses.

Overall, obtaining an RRT-CPP credential is a lengthy process that requires dedication and hard work. However, those who successfully obtain this credential will be rewarded with an advanced level of expertise in cardiopulmonary perfusion that can open up many career opportunities within this field.

7. Registered Polysomnographic Technologist in Cardiopulmonary Perfusion (RPSGT-CPP) from the National Board for Respiratory Care

Registered Polysomnographic Technologist in Cardiopulmonary Perfusion (RPSGT-CPP) is a certification from the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). It is a specialized credential for individuals who have advanced knowledge and skills in both polysomnography and cardiopulmonary perfusion. This certification demonstrates that the holder has achieved a high level of expertise in the field of sleep medicine and cardiopulmonary perfusion.

To obtain this certification, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements, including having an associate degree or higher in respiratory care or a related field, as well as having completed at least one year of full-time clinical experience in both polysomnography and cardiopulmonary perfusion. After meeting these requirements, applicants must then pass an exam administered by the NBRC to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as patient assessment, sleep study techniques, diagnostic testing, therapeutic interventions, and safety considerations.

The process of obtaining the RPSGT-CPP certification can take several months to complete. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, most locations charge around $200 for the exam fee alone. Additionally, there may be other costs associated with obtaining this certification such as travel expenses or fees for review courses or materials.

8. Certified Clinical Hemodynamic Monitoring Specialist (CCHMS) from the American Society of Anesthesiologists

The Certified Clinical Hemodynamic Monitoring Specialist (CCHMS) is a certification offered by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). This certification is designed to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to properly monitor hemodynamic parameters in critically ill patients. The CCHMS certification requires a comprehensive understanding of hemodynamic physiology, monitoring modalities, and clinical decision-making.

In order to become certified, individuals must have a minimum of two years of experience in critical care or anesthesiology. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as patient assessment, hemodynamic monitoring principles, and therapeutic interventions. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

The cost for the CCHMS certification is $500 for ASA members and $750 for non-members. This fee includes the exam fee as well as access to study materials and resources. Once certified, individuals are required to renew their certification every five years in order to maintain their credential.

Overall, the CCHMS certification provides healthcare professionals with an opportunity to demonstrate their expertise in hemodynamic monitoring and improve patient outcomes.

9. Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator (CHSE) from The Society for Simulation in Healthcare

The Certified Healthcare Simulation Educator (CHSE) is a certification program offered by The Society for Simulation in Healthcare (SSH). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and experience in healthcare simulation education.

To become certified, applicants must meet the following criteria: have a minimum of two years of experience in healthcare simulation education; be currently employed as a healthcare simulation educator; have completed at least 25 hours of formal instruction in healthcare simulation education; and pass an exam administered by SSH.

The CHSE exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as patient safety, educational design, instructional methods, assessment strategies, and technology use. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and can be taken online or at an approved testing center.

The cost for taking the CHSE exam is $400 for members of SSH or $450 for non-members. Additionally, there is an annual recertification fee of $100 for members or $150 for non-members.

10. Advanced Practice Provider in Cardiopulmonary Perfusion (APP-CPP) from The National Board for Certification in Cardiopulmonary Perfusion

Advanced Practice Provider in Cardiopulmonary Perfusion (APP-CPP) is a certification offered by the National Board for Certification in Cardiopulmonary Perfusion. It is designed to recognize those who have achieved advanced competency in the field of cardiopulmonary perfusion and demonstrate their commitment to providing quality patient care.

To become certified as an APP-CPP, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having a minimum of three years of experience as a Certified Clinical Perfusionist or equivalent, completing at least 100 hours of continuing education related to cardiopulmonary perfusion within the last five years, and passing an examination administered by the National Board for Certification in Cardiopulmonary Perfusion.

The application process can take up to six weeks from when all required documentation has been received by the board. The cost of applying for the APP-CPP certification is $400 USD.

Do You Really Need a Perfusionist Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual career goals. If you want to become a perfusionist, then yes, you need to obtain a perfusionist certificate. A perfusionist is an allied health professional who operates and maintains the heart-lung machine during open-heart surgery. This requires specialized knowledge and skills that can only be obtained through the completion of a perfusion education program and certification exam.

To become certified as a perfusionist, you must complete an accredited program in perfusion science and technology, typically lasting two years or more. The curriculum includes courses in anatomy and physiology, chemistry, physics, medical equipment operation, clinical practice management, and cardiopulmonary bypass techniques. After completing the program and passing the certification exam, you will be qualified to perform duties such as operating and maintaining the heart-lung machine during open-heart surgery; monitoring patient vital signs; calibrating equipment; preparing solutions for use during surgery; providing assistance to surgeons; conducting quality assurance tests; and documenting all activities related to patient care.

Having a perfusionist certificate can also provide additional opportunities for advancement in your career. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed a formal education program in this field because it shows commitment to quality patient care. Additionally, having a certificate may help increase your salary potential due to the specialized knowledge and skills it demonstrates.

In conclusion, if you are interested in becoming a perfusionist, then obtaining a certificate is essential for success in this field. It provides evidence of your dedication to the profession as well as valuable knowledge that can help further your career opportunities.

Related: Perfusionist Resume Examples

FAQs About Perfusionist Certifications

1. What is a Perfusionist Certification?

Answer: A perfusionist certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and skills in the field of clinical perfusion, which is the science of administering blood flow and oxygen to patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery or other medical procedures.

2. How do I become a Certified Perfusionist?

Answer: To become a certified perfusionist, you must complete an accredited perfusion education program and pass the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) certification exam.

3. What type of education do I need to become a certified perfusionist?

Answer: A minimum of an associate degree in applied science or related field from an accredited institution is typically required to become a certified perfusionist. Most programs also require two years of supervised clinical training after graduation.

4. How long does it take to get my perfusionist certification?

Answer: The process for obtaining your certification can take up to three years depending on the program you choose and whether you have prior experience in the field. After completing your educational requirements, you must then pass the ABCP certification exam before being officially certified as a perfusionist.

5. What are the benefits of becoming a certified perfusionist?

Answer: As a certified perfusionist, you will be able to work in hospitals and medical centers where you can provide life-saving services for patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery or other medical procedures. Additionally, having this credential will demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field, allowing for greater career advancement opportunities within your profession.