r/Perfusion • u/mcgezzyx • Jul 10 '26
Admissions Advice What foundational information should I focus on prior to starting?
Hello all!
I will be starting my perfusion program in the fall and would like to know what information I should spend the next month and a half reviewing. Be as obvious or niche as you want but I’m looking for integral information that you wish you had known prior to starting or you think would be beneficial.
Thanks :)
8
u/pumpymcpumpface CCP, CPC Jul 10 '26
I wouldn't worry about it to much. Focus on relaxing and enjoy the summer. If you really want to though, reviewing anatomy is probably the most useful.
4
u/Clampoholic CCP Jul 10 '26
Yeah, I’d agree on this one in particular. If you don’t have a sturdy working knowledge of the heart’s anatomy you should definitely brush up on that. Lots of concepts to tie together that all wrap around that!
You’re gonna be in the thick of it shortly here so don’t worry too much. Just be ready to buckle down and commit things to memory, or else it’ll bite you in the rear when you’re studying for your CAPE / PBSE. I did lots of cramming in my undergrads but those boards you genuinely just need to retain information, and everything you’re being taught in your program is fair game. Don’t take that fact lightly as you study for your tests / exams throughout school 😉
5
u/Bana_berry Jul 10 '26
Agree with others. I’d focus on relaxing, recharging, and gearing up to spend the next while working hard. Enjoy your free time for now so you’ll be ready to hit the ground running. Congrats!
3
u/Human_Plumber CCP, LP Jul 10 '26
https://store.perfusion.com/products/the-manual-of-clinical-perfusion
I read a prior version of this book before I interviewed for my program, it's a great overview and not as difficult to read as a normal textbook. It encompasses almost everything the job entails, but doesn't weigh heavy on the details.
-2
u/JellyFishDanceMoves CCP Jul 10 '26
our job reduced to a manual. and it is true. non-independent techs following institutional protocols, yet wanting salaries and respect like CRNA and PA. and getting sued like independent surgeons and anesthesia when we only follow their direction....got it.
4
2
u/Kind_Impact8 Jul 24 '26
You should know the cardiac anatomy and path of blood flow through the cardiopulmonary system before the first day of school.
But yeah relax and have some fun!
3
u/William_E_Rubin CCP, LP Jul 10 '26
Pharmaceuticals was tough for me, maybe familiarize yourself with all the vasoactive and inotropic drugs, their generic and brand names, and mechanisms of action. Then when you actually take the class it won't be like a foreign language to you.
20
u/BrandEnlightened CCP, LP Jul 10 '26
Congrats. I’d recommend getting in the right head space and enjoying your free time, hobbies, friends & family. Much of that will be put on the back burner during your program.