Professionals in this group perform some or all of the following duties:

• Conduct arterial blood gas and cardiopulmonary function testing
• Operate and monitor ventilators and respiratory equipment
• Perform airway management and assist with intubation
• Provide mechanical ventilation support and administer authorized medications
• Assist in patient transport and emergency response situations
• Operate heart-lung machines during cardiac surgery
• Maintain extracorporeal circulation equipment and monitor vital signs during procedures
• Administer blood products and medications during cardiopulmonary procedures
• Conduct pulmonary and cardiac stress tests
• Assist in cardiac catheterization procedures
• Monitor pacemakers and defibrillators
• Calibrate diagnostic and perfusion equipment
• Provide patient care during diagnostic testing
• Supervise and train junior staff and students

These are the typical employment requirements and benefits associated with this occupation in Canada:

• Respiratory therapists require completion of a three-year college or university program in respiratory therapy.
• Licensing is required in most provinces, while national certification may apply in certain regions.
• Clinical perfusionists require completion of a respiratory therapy or nursing program followed by a clinical perfusion program with clinical training.
• Certification with the Canadian Society of Clinical Perfusion is typically required for perfusionists.
• Cardiopulmonary technologists require a two-year allied health diploma or relevant degree and post-diploma cardiovascular technology training.
• Registration with professional associations such as the Canadian Association of Cardio-pulmonary Technologists may be required.
• Internationally educated professionals must complete credential recognition and provincial licensing before practice.
• Many employers offer healthcare benefits, pension plans, overtime pay, and professional development opportunities.