Course Details

West African College of Clinical Physiology Sciences (WACCPS)

Duration: 12 Months

Target Audience: BSc Human Physiology and recognized health related disciplines

1. PROGRAMME IDENTIFICATION

1.1. Award Title:

Professional Certification in Cardiovascular Perfusion Science

1.2 Programme Type:

Intensive clinical training with simulation

2. CURRICULAR STRUCTURE

Phase 1: Foundational Theory (Months 1-3)

Module 1.1 - Perfusion Sciences Core

• History of cardiopulmonary bypass
• Fluid/gas dynamics in extracorporeal circuits

Module 1.2 - Cardiovascular Pathophysiology

• Cardiac surgical disease spectrum
• Coagulation cascade and heparin management

Phase 2: Clinical Perfusion Technology (Months 4-9)

Module 2.1 - Equipment Mastery

• Heart-lung machines (Stockert, Sorin)
• ECMO systems and mobile perfusion units

Module 2.2 - Procedural Competencies

• Circuit priming and de-airing techniques
• Blood conservation strategies
• Intra-aortic balloon pump management

Phase 3: Advanced Applications (Months 10-12)

Module 3.1 - Specialized Perfusion

• Pediatric perfusion protocols
• Deep hypothermic circulatory arrest

Module 3.2 - Crisis Management

• Massive air embolism protocols
• Circuit failure emergency drills

3. CLINICAL COMPETENCY MATRIX

SKILLS / Minimum Cases / Assessment Method

• CABG Perfusion Direct Observation
• Valve Case Management Simulation Testing
• ECMO Initiation Checklist Evaluation

5. CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Supervised clinical cases
• 3 emergency scenario certifications
• Final oral/practical examination

6. Accreditation and Quality Assurance

The curriculum aligns with International Education Accreditation Council (IEAC),

Approved by: WACCPS

This intensive programme produces perfusionists capable of:

• Independent operation of cardiopulmonary bypass

• Management of ECMO systems

• Participation in transplant teams

The curriculum balances WHO patient safety benchmarks with regional healthcare realities.

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