About the position
The Respiratory Therapist - Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) at the University of Rochester is responsible for providing extracorporeal life support to Neonatal, Pediatric, and Adult patients experiencing cardiac or respiratory failure despite maximal medical therapy. This role requires a high level of competency in patient care, adhering to established standards, and functioning independently in critical care settings. In the absence of ECMO, the therapist will operate as a registered Respiratory Therapist in at least one critical care area of the hospital, ensuring comprehensive care for patients in need. Key responsibilities include monitoring and troubleshooting the ECMO circuit and related equipment throughout the treatment process. The therapist will collaborate closely with bedside RNs, physicians, and other healthcare team members to coordinate care for complex patients. Additionally, the role involves maintaining clinical and administrative duties related to the Extra Corporeal Life Support (ECLS) program, providing specialized expertise in ECLS and respiratory care to the healthcare team, and participating in educational programs for staff. The ECMO Specialist will also engage in performance improvement monitoring activities and ensure appropriate ECMO pump coverage around the clock. Responsibilities extend to assisting the ECMO Coordinator in policy implementation, training ECMO staff, and providing expertise for ECLS transport. The therapist will perform special procedures, including setting up and troubleshooting advanced respiratory equipment, and will be expected to function independently in high-acuity environments such as the Emergency Department and Operating Room. Other duties may be assigned as necessary.
Responsibilities
- Provide extracorporeal life support to Neonatal, Pediatric, and Adult patients in cardiac or respiratory failure.
- Monitor and troubleshoot the ECMO circuit and related equipment during treatment.
- Collaborate with bedside RNs, physicians, and other healthcare team members to coordinate care for complex patients.
- Maintain and perform clinical and administrative duties related to the ECLS program.
- Provide specialized expertise regarding ECLS and respiratory care to the healthcare team.
- Participate in education, orientation, and training programs for respiratory care staff, nursing staff, and physician staff.
- Engage in performance improvement monitoring activities within the department and interdepartmentally.
- Ensure appropriate ECMO pump coverage 24/7.
- Assist the ECMO Coordinator in organizing and implementing policies and procedures.
- Train and educate ECMO staff, including conducting emergency drills and annual competencies.
- Provide expertise for ECLS transport, both internal and external.
- Assist in data collection and data entry.
- Function as a registered Respiratory Therapist in critical care areas in the absence of ECMO.
- Perform special and complex procedures, including setting up and troubleshooting nitric oxide and HFOV.
- Provide instruction to others on special and complex procedures.
Requirements
- Associate's degree in Respiratory Therapy required; Bachelor's degree preferred.
- Minimum of 2 years' experience in Respiratory Care.
- Successful completion of UR Pediatric ECMO training curriculum within 6 months of hire required.
- Proficiency in all ECMO and respiratory care equipment for age-specific populations.
- Understanding and proficiency in advanced techniques such as bronchoscopy, ECLS, and mixed gas therapy preferred.
- Proficiency in the care and management of patients during intra-hospital and high acuity inter-hospital transports preferred.
- New York State license as a Registered Respiratory Therapist with current registrations required.
- Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support, Pediatric Advanced Life Support, and Neonatal Resuscitation Program certifications preferred.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience in pediatric and adult critical care settings.
- Knowledge of JCAHO, ELSO, and ECMO program standards.
- Experience in performance improvement activities.
Benefits
- Competitive hourly pay ranging from $40.40 to $52.52.
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
- Retirement savings plan options.
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
