Perfusionist are NOT the only ones qualified to run a cell saver, despite what they'd have you to think. Some service provider companies have extensive training, not just on how to operate the machine but on blood concepts etc. Operating the heart-lung machine and the cell saver are two different things.

Perfusionists are not the only ones qualified to operate autotransfusion/cell washing devices. The majority of personnel that operate these devices are nurses and other non-perfusion personnel. Perfusionists are didactically educated and clinically trained through an AMA, CAAHEP approved education program and then are qualified by a national certification exam to operate autotransfusion devices. No other medical specialty has this level of education and training, which thus qualifies a perfusionist to be considered an expert in this area. The American Society of Extracorporeal Technology (AmSECT) has included autotransfusionists into their membership and have also founded the International Board of Blood Management (IBBM). The IBBM is now offering a national certification exam in autotransfusion, to create a specialty called a Perioperative Blood Management Technician. This specialty will certify an autotransfusionist in the same knowledge and clinical experience as a Perfusionist. I would highly recommend taking this exam to establish the quality, patient safety and expertise in this area that autotransfusionists should have. The AABB, and soon Joint Commission, will recognize this specialty for the reasons I just mentioned and elevate the role of the autotransfusionist to the level of a medical specialist. This will be more important and relevant as stem cell therapies, bedside autologous blood component therapies and aquapheresis are embraced in the future.
Mark Lucas, MPS, CCP
Board of Director, AmSECT
Board of Director, IBBM

The International Board of Blood Management (IBBM) will be offering the next (PBMT) Perioperative Blood Management Technologist examination in Jackson Hole WY to certify those individuals who are doing cell washers for autotransfusion. This will coincide with the (NABM) New Advances in Blood Management meeting highlighting the latest advances blood management. Those interested should visit the site and sign up Perioperative Blood Management Technologist Certification for the exam at this great meeting in a great location next to Yellowstone National Park in mid August.

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Keith A. Samolyk CCP, LCP
Global Blood Resources LLC
P.O. Box 383 Somers CT. 06071
Tel (800) - 942 - 9243
Fax (860) - 285 - 0289
www.mybloodfirst.com