ECMO Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Our organization is thrilled to present an opportunity for a registered nurse or respiratory therapist to join us as an ECMO Specialist at a prestigious medical facility!

The ECMO/ECLS (Extracorporeal Life Support) Specialist is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the extracorporeal circuit, providing long-term support for pulmonary and/or cardiac functions. This role requires independent functioning under established protocols and guidance from the ECLS physician, while actively participating in a multidisciplinary team to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate comprehensive care services.

COMPENSATION:

$120,000-$135,000, depending on skills, training, and experience.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

A. Responsibilities of the ECLS Specialist include, but are not limited to:

• Operating the extracorporeal circuit, pump, and associated equipment.
• Overseeing the continuous delivery of healthcare services to patients and their families in accordance with institutional policies.
• Engaging in patient rounds and providing input to the Physician and ECLS team based on patient responses to therapy.
• Analyzing laboratory and blood gas results, administering treatment as per physician protocols.
• Making necessary adjustments to the circuit, including pump flow, gas exchange, hemofiltration, and anticoagulation therapy, to keep patients within the limits set by the ECLS physician.
• Troubleshooting the ECLS circuit and replacing components as needed, typically in collaboration with institutional Perfusionists and Physicians.
• Assisting in data collection and research initiatives related to the institution or our organization.
• Participating in ongoing training sessions related to ECLS services.

B. Additional responsibilities of the ECLS Specialist include:

• Accurately assessing pathophysiological changes in patients during bypass.
• Managing ECMO flow in relation to patient management parameters.
• Performing all technical skills with precision, safety, and in accordance with institutional policies.
• Operating all equipment according to established procedures, distinguishing between patient issues and equipment problems.
• Implementing standing physician orders within set guidelines.
• Anticipating and managing emergency situations while maintaining professionalism.
• Effectively assessing the ECLS circuit.
• Managing anticoagulation according to institutional protocols.
• Demonstrating proper blood sampling techniques from the ECLS circuit.
• Documenting all ECMO records accurately, including in OnCloud EMR.
• Administering blood products into the ECLS circuit appropriately.
• Managing laboratory results and executing necessary interventions related to ECLS therapy.
• Assessing the clinical status of patients, including vital signs, and discussing potential interventions.
• Providing constructive feedback to enhance patient outcomes to other care providers.
• Compiling information and documenting interventions that contribute to the integrated care plan.
• Anticipating and communicating patient needs that require intervention from other team members.
• Identifying learning needs for patients, families, and staff.
• Assisting in defining learning outcomes and appropriate interventions.
• Utilizing innovative approaches to tailor patient and family education to individual needs.
• Participating in discussions regarding patient management and suggesting clinical options.
• Maintaining licensure qualifications as required.
• Ensuring communication aligns with institutional standards for ECLS care.
• Staying updated on current ECLS topics through journals, online resources, and networking.
• Exhibiting punctuality, respect for colleagues, and professional behavior at all times.

C. Personal demands on the ECLS Specialist include:

• Participating in an “on-call” schedule, available 24/7 throughout the year.
• Being reachable via pager or cell phone during on-call hours and responding within the hospital's designated timeframe.
• Maintaining good physical health.
• Enduring long hours, both mentally and physically.
• Meeting physical demands such as standing for extended periods, lifting, and other activities.
• Being exposed to potentially harmful gases and bodily fluids, with associated risks of infections and diseases.
• Keeping current with perfusion technology, procedures, and literature.
• Establishing and maintaining a professional demeanor.
• Upholding the integrity of our cardiovascular services.
• Providing support for clinical accounts during staff shortages due to vacations or illness.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. A. Registered Nurse or Registered Respiratory Therapist licensed in the state of employment.
2. B. At least two (2) years of experience in intensive care or a related field.
3. C. Successful completion of an ECLS Training Course.
4. D. Successful completion of the Perfusion.com clinical assessment examination.
5. E. A minimum of 60 hours of Clinical Pump time.
6. F. Comprehensive understanding of circuit components used in the ECLS center.
7. G. Ability to remain composed under pressure; mechanical aptitude is preferred.
8. Must be willing to relocate to Washington, DC, or nearby areas.

IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:

1. A. Director of ECLS Services
2. B. Vice President
3. C. Hospital Director of ECLS Services / Intensivist

CREDENTIALING:

If necessary, the ECLS Specialist will provide all required documentation to the hospital credentialing committee for approval as a non-physician medical staff member.

Benefits Offered:

• Competitive salary packages
• Relocation assistance
• Paid time off
• 401K plan with employer matching
• Incentives and bonuses for travel and additional opportunities
• Health insurance coverage
• Dental insurance options
• Vision insurance plans
• Life insurance with voluntary options
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Professional liability insurance
• Business Travel Accident Insurance

Estimated Compensation Range:

$90,000-$125,000+ annually, based on skills, experience, and potential bonuses.

By applying for this position, you acknowledge that any communications from our organization may be monitored or recorded for training and quality assurance purposes.

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.

All qualified applicants will be considered for employment, including those with criminal histories, in accordance with applicable laws.