ECMO Spec.

Job Summary

The Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Specialist  monitors and assesses consistently the ECMO circuit, related technology, and patient status. Identifies and resolves issues with ECMO support, and initiates and evaluates interventions according to established protocols and orders. Collaborates closely with physicians and clinical staff about any questions or concerns regarding patient condition or protocol guidelines. Works synergistically with other team members and healthcare providers to deliver personalized patient care.

Minimum Job Requirements:

Work Experience:

One year of patient care experience in an intensive care unit is required.

License/Registration/Certification:

Respiratory Therapist:

1. Registered by the National Board for Respiratory Care.
2. Current Texas Respiratory Care License.
3. Current BLS and ACLS Certification.
4. ECMO Specialist Certification, E-AEC, or CES-A preferred.
5. Adult Critical Care Specialty (ACCS) preferred.

Registered Nurse:

1. Current Texas or Compact RN License required.
2. Current BLS and ACLS Certification.
3. ECMO Specialist Certification, E-AEC, or CES-A preferred.
4. Critical Care Certification, CCRN preferred.

Education and Training:

 Respiratory Therapist:

1. Associate degree from an accredited school for Respiratory Care.
2. Bachelor degree preferred.

Registered Nurse:

1. Bachelor’s degree in Nursing required.

            Skills:

1. Satisfactory maintenance of clinical competencies.
2. Satisfactory completion of the internal ECMO training program.
3. Satisfactory completion of required special procedure classes (e.g., blood administration).
4. Knowledge regarding quality improvement and standards of care within practice area.
5. Attention to detail and proficiency in maintaining accurate medical records.
6. Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate complex medical information to patients and their families, ensuring their understanding of ECMO support and related care.
7. Excellent communication skills.
8. Knowledge of and ability to evaluate and assess arterial blood gas measurements.
9. Ability to respond to emergent or stressful situations appropriately, calmly, and in a timely manner.
10. Ability to function as a team member and deliver quality outcomes.