ECMO Specialist

DRISCOLL HEALTH PLAN•Corpus Christi, TX

About The Position

Performs ECMO and autotransfusion practices in support of patient-specific treatment plans under the direct supervision of an operating surgeon, anesthesiologist, ICU attending, or perfusionist. The role includes preparing cardiopulmonary bypass and ECMO equipment, supporting patients during ECMO, providing autotransfusion and related clinical services, and communicating patient changes to the healthcare team. The position also supports education, quality control, research, registry data entry, and ECMO staffing coordination. Employees must maintain confidentiality, follow hospital policies and procedures, and comply with ethical and corporate integrity guidelines. Other reasonably related duties may be assigned by the immediate supervisor or hospital administration.

Requirements

Active RN or RRT licensure in the state of Texas.
Current nursing license through the Texas Board of Nursing or current respiratory therapy license through the Texas Medical Board.
Maintain continuing education units (CEUs) for licensure.
Maintain current BLS/CPR, ACLS, and PALS certifications through the American Heart Association.

Nice To Haves

3–5 years of ECMO specialist experience preferred.
Research background preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

Prepare the cardiopulmonary bypass machine for open-heart surgery.
Prepare and prime the ECMO machine.
Select the appropriate cardiopulmonary and ECMO circuit size for each patient.
Select patient-dependent cannula sizes for each procedure.
Monitor and maintain normal patient physiology during ECMO.
Communicate patient changes clearly and efficiently to the ICU attending, bedside nurse, respiratory therapist, and perfusion department.
Provide autotransfusion services during and after cardiac procedures and to other hospital areas as needed.
Provide or direct blood gas analysis, activated clotting times, heparin assay analysis, hemoconcentration, and mechanical circulatory support.
Participate in quality control and research opportunities as assigned by the Director of Perfusion.
Pursue educational and leadership opportunities to enhance professional growth and clinical expertise.
Facilitate communication among healthcare team members.
Complete data entry for the ELSO registry in a timely manner.
Assist with ECMO education.
Complete the ECMO staffing schedule.
Maintain confidentiality and adhere to hospital policies, procedures, ethical business practices, and corporate compliance and integrity guidelines.
Perform other duties as assigned.