ELS Specialist

BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITY

Set up, operate and coordinate extracorporeal life support systems to provide cardiac and/or pulmonary support for patients requiring cardiopulmonary by pass.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Set up and operate extracorporeal life support equipment to monitor and control blood flow, blood volume, temperature and coagulation.
• Maintain infusion of drugs, fluids and blood products into circuit, following protocol.
• Maintain, operate and test patient care equipment.
• Participate in the evaluation and implementation of new equipment and techniques.
• Instruct Allied Health and Nursing staff in the operation of equipment, performance of tests and specialized techniques.
• Transport patients on life support systems.
• Respond to emergency situations.
• Assist in the set up and priming of extracorporeal life support circuitry, replacement of components and cannulation, decannulation and post system clean up.
• Coordinate and provide orientation for new staff.
• May coordinate staff assignments.
• May assist in organizing and conducting the Life Support (ECMO) Specialist Training Course.
• May assist in research protocol and data collections and provide in service training for staff on study protocols and requirements.
• May ensure the preparation and maintenance of record keeping functions.
• Process patient care orders using the electronic ordering system may be required in certain areas.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

General supervision is received from a Nurse Manager or other designated official.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position requires moderate standing/walking, as well as lifting, positioning, pushing, and/or transferring of patients.

A bachelor's degree in nursing, respiratory therapy, or perfusion, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Completion of the U of M ECMO Specialist Training Course.
Obtain bedside competency within 12 weeks post-course.
BLS certification.
Must have current Michigan Respiratory Therapist license.
At least 2 years of current ICU experience.
Certificate or registration in nursing, respiratory therapy or a related field is necessary.
Reasonable knowledge of anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and surgery pertaining to ECMO.
Self-motivation, independence and initiative are required qualities along with a willingness and interest in learning new procedures and applications of ECLS support.
To accept above stated duties and also take on charge responsibilities upon completion of orientation.

NOTE: Required qualifications must be met by the candidate in order to be interviewed and considered for the position.

RESUME REQUIRED (for both internal & external applicants):
You must attach a complete and accurate resume to be fully considered for this position.

ECMO Specialist experience desired.
Minimum 1 year of experience in coordinating daily departmental clinical operations.

Nights
3 12-hour shifts per week