Perfusionist
Posted Oct 2, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026
Likely interview questions for this role
Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.
About your past
Tell me about a time you and the surgeon or anesthesiologist disagreed during a case. How did you handle it?
What they are checking: Whether they can speak up clearly in the OR while keeping teamwork intact under pressure.
If you are a new graduate, how would you use the mentorship program? If experienced, how would you help mentor someone new?
What they are checking: Whether they fit into a small, close-knit team that trains its own people.
What would you do
You notice air in the arterial line during bypass. What do you do?
What they are checking: Whether they can respond to a crisis like air embolism quickly and calmly using an emergency protocol.
This team does 500 to 550 cases a year with 1 in 6 call. How do you stay sharp for a 2 a.m. emergency?
What they are checking: Whether they handle call responsibly and can perform at full skill when tired.
About the work
Walk me through your setup and checklist before going on bypass.
What they are checking: Whether they follow a disciplined pre-bypass routine, since equipment failures on pump can be fatal.
How do you manage anticoagulation on bypass, and what do you do when the ACT isn't where you expect after heparin?
What they are checking: Whether they understand heparin resistance and can respond correctly to unexpected clotting numbers.
Talk me through how you manage blood gases and acid-base status during a case. Do you use alpha-stat or pH-stat, and why?
What they are checking: Whether they understand the reasoning behind their blood gas management rather than following a habit.
What experience do you have with ECMO, cell saver or balloon pumps?
What they are checking: Whether they can cover the range of extracorporeal and support duties beyond standard bypass.
How do you decide when a patient needs a transfusion on pump?
What they are checking: Whether they use patient-specific data and blood conservation practices rather than transfusing by habit.
How do you document a case so the record is complete and accurate?
What they are checking: Whether they keep detailed perfusion records, which matter for patient follow-up, quality review and legal protection.
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Practice this out loudThe full job description
As published by SSM Health.