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CVP5005 · Biochemistry and pharmacology for perfusion

Official Handbook

2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 5School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health

Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTC

Overview

In this unit you will learn about biochemical and pharmacology principles relevant to clinical practice as a perfusionist. You will gain knowledge and skills regarding the underlying cellular and metabolic functions that support homeostasis and how cardiopulmonary bypass affects this. You will learn about acid/base management and the essential role that a variety of pharmacological agents play in maintaining equilibrium for patients during cardiac surgery. You will explore the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of drugs relevant to clinical practice as a perfusionist and how to administer these pharmacological agents in accordance with the National Safety and Health Quality Service (NSHQS) Standards and within your scope of practice.

Offerings

CampusTeaching periodMode
ClaytonFirst semesterTeaching is all online (ONLINE)

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

#AssessmentTypeWeightHurdle
1Written assignment (2,000 words) Written40%
2Medication safety project (Part A 1,000 words & Part B 8-12 minutes)Project40%
3Quiz (90 minutes)Quiz / Test20%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

corequisite

  • CVP5003 — Perfusion principles and practice 2: Practical applications
  • CVP5004 — Pathophysiology for perfusion

Joined by AND.

prerequisite

  • CVP5001 — Cardiovascular anatomy and physiology
  • CVP5002 — Biomedical electronics for perfusion

Joined by AND.

Learning outcomes

  1. Examine biochemical processes and how they are affected by cardiopulmonary bypass to inform clinical practice
  2. Evaluate the therapeutic and physiological effects of common medications used during cardiac surgery to ensure safe practice
  3. Appraise contemporary cardioplegia solutions and techniques for myocardial protection in cardiac surgery to support clinical practice
  4. Examine and apply legal, ethical and professional responsibilities in medication administration to support practice in line with the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards
  5. Communicate complex concepts and scientific content in a variety of formats

Workload

3 hours of teacher-directed study per week, including 2 hours of lectures per week and 2 hours of tutorials per fortnight 9 hours of self-directed study Total per week = 12 hours

ActivityDuration
Tutorials

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