ECMO Specialist

ECMO Specialist

The Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Specialist (ES) is responsible for ensuring appropriate patient care through the continuous monitoring and assessment of the ECMO circuit, related technology, and patient status. The incumbent identifies and corrects problems associated with the ECMO procedure and initiates and evaluates interventions consistent with protocol. The ES works under the guidance of the Perfusionist and consults with the ECMO physician when patient condition and/or protocol limits or directives are in question. As a member of the ECMO team, this position works closely with other team members and health care providers to provide patient care in accordance with the patient's individualized care plan.

Other duties may be assigned.

• Operates the extracorporeal circuit, pump, and related equipment.
• Collaborates the plan of care with the ECMO Physician, Perfusionist and other members of the ECLS team to manage the ongoing process of care delivery to patients and families per institutional policies.
• Reviews diagnostic results and collaborates with the ECMO Physician Team on treatment per defined protocols prescribed by physician in charge.
• Performs patient assessment to anticipate and prevent potential problems.
• Monitors and manages intake and output records to ensure appropriate fluid levels.
• Under the supervision of the Perfusionist, ES will perform Circuit adjustments including pump flow, gas exchange, hemofiltration, anticoagulation therapy or other interventions to maintain patient within limitations set by ECLS physician.
• May assist in data collection and research activities associated with the institution.
• Demonstrates expertise in adult care including assessment, technical skills and psychosocial aspects of care.
• Attends ongoing classes as mandated related to ECLS competency.
• Under the guidance of the Perfusionist, Manages ECMO flow in relationship to patient management parameters.
• Performs all technical skills with efficiency, accuracy, safety and in accordance with institutional policy and procedures.
• Operates all equipment according to policy and procedures.
• Anticipates, intervenes and manages crisis/emergency situations according to policy.
• Demonstrates effective assessment of the ECLS circuit.
• Anticipates and communicates patient needs that will require intervention by other members of the ECMO Team.
• Maintains certification and mandatory required competency classes and hands on training.
• Also functions as CVICU Registered nurse when not fulfilling ECMO specialist duties.

Education, Experience and Qualifications:

Minimum of a Associates Degree required, Bachelor's degree preferred.

Licensed as a Registered Nurse in the State of Florida.

Minimum 2 years in high acuity/ critical care experience and one year managing Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit patients required.

Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.

Advanced Life Support (ALS) certification required from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.

Satisfactory completion of NCH approved ECMO specialist/ ECLS education program.

Advanced specialty certification in clinical field preferred i.e. CCRN preferred.

Satisfactory completion of Clinical skills assessment competency.

Ability to function in high stress environments.