A perfusionist’s journey of collaborative and compassionate care

"I was eager to explore the intricate world of perfusion, which allows me to assume greater responsibilities in the operating room," Melanie shares. Transitioning to perfusion allowed her to operate heart-lung machines, oversee cardiopulmonary bypass during surgeries, and collaborate closely with a diverse multidisciplinary team. "I found a dynamic field that not only satisfied my thirst for knowledge but also enabled me to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in cardiovascular care."

Over the years, Melanie developed her skills and gained valuable experience working closely with patients and medical teams. In 2018, driven by a desire for professional growth and new challenges, she made the transition to perfusion.

This shift involved pursuing the rigorous 2-year diploma program at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). The comprehensive education included theoretical learning and practical training, culminating in one year of on-the-job training across the country. Throughout this time, Melanie gained hands-on experience and deepened her understanding of perfusion techniques, equipment, and protocols. 

"My background as a cardiac nurse provided a strong foundation for this transition," she reflects. "This felt like a natural progression fueled by my desire for new challenges, increased autonomy, and heightened excitement in my career."

Working at VGH offers a truly unique experience as it is the primary ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) site and lung transplant hospital in the province. "We care for some of the sickest patients, which presents both challenges and incredibly rewarding experiences," says Melanie.

Emphasizing camaraderie and trust among coworkers, Melanie highlights the importance of creating a supportive team environment with open communication and appreciation for each member's efforts. "Being flexible and understanding of each other's needs, whether it's accommodating personal commitments or offering support during challenging times, is important," she notes. "This sense of unity and trust is essential, where every member plays a crucial role in delivering optimal patient care."

Describing her colleagues as a second family, Melanie highlights that collaboration is at the core of their daily operations. "We rely on each other extensively, especially during high-stress situations. Effective and efficient communication is key to our success, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and able to respond swiftly to any challenges that arise."

The camaraderie among her colleagues is what truly fulfills Melanie in her role. "We work closely together, driven by a shared goal of providing the best possible care for our patients," she says. "The mutual support is incredibly rewarding and underscores the importance of collaboration in healthcare."

Melanie strives to embody the organization's core values (We Care for Everyone, We are Always Learning and We Strive for Better Results) in every aspect of her work.

"As a healthcare professional, caring for everyone is at the heart of what I do," she emphasizes. "I prioritize compassionate and patient-centered care, ensuring that every individual I encounter receives the highest quality of support and attention, regardless of their background or circumstances."

Embracing a mindset of lifelong learning, Melanie actively seeks out opportunities to expand her knowledge, skills, and expertise. "It is essential in the fast-paced and ever-evolving field of healthcare," she explains." I am dedicated to staying at the forefront of the field and continuously improving my practice.”

"Striving for better results drives me to continuously push the boundaries of what is possible in patient-care," says Melanie. "I am committed to delivering optimal outcomes for every patient.”  

Melanie emphasizes that working at VCH offers unparalleled autonomy and flexibility not often found in other health care roles.

“Joining the VCH team provides a unique opportunity for both personal and professional growth, offering invaluable experience through exposure to complex cases and advanced medical procedures,” she says. “The profound sense of fulfillment that comes from positively impacting patients' lives makes VCH an exceptional environment to cultivate a rewarding and fulfilling career in healthcare.”

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