Professor Renee McLeod, Chair
Adjunct Assistant Professor Edward Delaney, Graduate Co-Program Director
Adjunct Instructor Joseph Greco, Graduate Co-Program Director

The Hofstra Northwell School of Graduate Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies’ Cardiovascular Sciences and Perfusion Medicine Program is committed to the education, mentoring and professional development of future cardiovascular perfusionists. Our goal is to produce highly skilled, competent next generation leaders in the field of cardiovascular science and perfusion medicine.  A 24-month program, integrating didactic and clinical practicum course-work, provides the education for an entry-level applicant to achieve a Certificate in Perfusion Clinical Competence and a Master of Science Degree in Cardiovascular Sciences and Perfusion Medicine from Hofstra University.
 
The curriculum will use a combination of high and low fidelity simulation, virtual education modalities, traditional classroom and field experts to prepare students for the clinical application of heart-lung bypass, methods of gas exchange, fluid management, hemostasis, and techniques of extracorporeal circulation for adult, pediatric, and infant patients.  The program provides the student with skills necessary to proficiently and safely conduct extracorporeal circulation with any cardiothoracic surgical team or medical department. Hofstra University draws upon the high volume of the New York City region, national and international expertise in adult cardiac tertiary specialty care services of Northwell Health and its regional clinical affiliates in the largest healthcare market in the country. In addition to traditional extracorporeal training, students will have the opportunity to experience complex aortic surgery, infant and pediatric perfusion for complex congenital and acquired heart disease, extracorporeal life support, ventricular assist devices and cutting edge technology in cardiovascular science.  An interprofessional team of educators, experts in the field of cardiovascular science, and first class clinical rotations, ensure a highly qualified student experience.

Upon completion of the program the graduate will possess the necessary educational background to:

1. Select the equipment and techniques necessary to perform perfusion procedures for adults, infants, and children, in consultation with the physician.
2. Safely operate extracorporeal circulation equipment and various cardiac assist devices during any medical situation where it is necessary to support or temporarily bypass the patients cardiopulmonary system.
3. Safely administer prescribed blood products, anesthetic agents and drugs through the extracorporeal circuit.
4. Monitor and report selected physiological parameters of the patient.
5. Document complete and accurate information on the perfusion record.
6. Function within recognized ethical and legal standards.
7. Meet eligibility requirements for the Certification Examination of the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion and State Licensure bodies.
8. Be competent in basic research and statistical methods.