CONTRIBUTIONS OF ACADEMIC KNOWLEDGE TO THE TRAINING OF NURSES IN THE PRACTICE OF EXTRACORPOREAL PERFUSION: TECHNICAL AND THEORETICAL APPROACHES

Abstract

Extracorporeal circulation (ECC) is fundamental in complex cardiac surgeries, and the perfusionist nurse plays a crucial role in operating the circuit, monitoring critical parameters, and making rapid decisions. Their performance requires technical-scientific skills, effective communication, and knowledge from a nursing degree, such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology, which support the safe practice of perfusion. This study is an integrative literature review, conducted between March and November 2025, aiming to synthesize the contributions of academic knowledge to the training of perfusionist nurses. The bibliographic research was conducted in databases such as SciELO and PubMed. Scientific publications in Portuguese and English, from 2020 to 2025, were included, excluding non-scientific materials or those prior to this period. Thirteen articles and one COFEN resolution were selected to support the review. The results indicated that knowledge in pathophysiology, pharmacology, anatomy, and hemodynamic monitoring are essential for the safe performance of the perfusionist nurse in ECC. Specialized training enhances skills and ensures safety, although the professional's role still needs greater recognition and expansion within multidisciplinary teams. In conclusion, nursing training is essential for the safe and effective performance of the perfusionist nurse, as it combines theory, practice, protocols, technologies, and the nursing process. Furthermore, structured training improves technical and cognitive competencies, ensuring performance equivalent to that of other professionals. However, challenges to recognition and expansion persist, highlighting the need for greater institutional support and research to strengthen the specialty.