Pediatric ECMO Specialist - Respiratory Therapist, Nights Children's TMC

At Memorial Hermann, we pursue a common goal of delivering high quality, efficient care while creating exceptional experiences for every member of our community. When we say every member of our community, that includes our employees. We know that when our employees feel cared for, heard and valued, they are inspired to create moments that exceed expectations, while prioritizing safety, compassion, personalization and efficiency. If you want to advance your career and contribute to our vision of creating healthier communities, now and for generations to come, we want you to be a part of our team.

Job Summary

Position responsible for recommending and administering basic and advanced therapeutic and diagnostic procedures, including arterial blood gases, neonatal procedures, trauma care and ventilator transports, to patients with respiratory disorders, including patients in adult and neonatal critical care units. Functions as a resource to RCP I and RCP II’s. Participates and leads advanced patient education. Actively involved in departmental operations.

Job Description

The Pediatric ECMO Specialist team is a highly trained and specialized team that responds to emergent situations in our TMC Children's location. As an ECMO specialist, you will utilize the bypass machine to assist with rapid response procedures needed to save lives. The Pediatric ECMO Program at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital (CMHH) has been recognized by the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) as a Designated Center of Excellence since the inception of the award in 2006, recognizing international ECMO programs for having processes, procedures and systems in place that promote excellence and exceptional care. Our Program began in 1992, one of the oldest in Texas, and has used ECMO to treat more than 500 patients. As a high-volume program in Texas, the Pediatric ECMO Program supports approximately 30 children each year.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree preferred.

Licenses/Certifications:

• Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) preferred.
• Current Respiratory Care Practitioner License or Temporary Respiratory Care Practitioner License.
• Basic Life Support Certification
• Two (2) of the following are preferred: ACLS, PALS, NRP, CPFT, RPFT, RPSGT, Asthma Certified Educator, NRP Instructor, ACLS Instructor, PALS Instructor, or BLS Instructor.

Experience / Knowledge / Skills:

• RCP I <1 year
• RCP II = 1-3 years
• RCP III = 3-10 years
• RCP IV = 10+ years
• Two (2) years of critical care experience, preferred.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• The position requires occasional lifting and carrying of up to 50 pounds; prolonged standing; frequent walking, stooping and squatting.
• The visual ability to monitor instruments, computers and equipment, recognize alphanumeric characters, distinguish colors and observe physical characteristics are essential to this position.

Principal Accountabilities

• Performs duties in a manner to promote quality patient care and customer service, while promoting safety, cost efficiency and a commitment to quality care.
• Performs respiratory care procedures: administer medical gases, medication, and aerosols for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes and provide patient education.
• Follows written orders from physicians in administering drugs and medication to the cardiopulmonary system of patients, evaluate treatment provided and take appropriate action.
• Performs patient assessment and basic interpretation of arterial blood gases, pulmonary function testing and chest x-rays as indicated in Skills Check Off list.
• Provides expert respiratory advice and recommendations to physicians and other staff for population served.
• Communicates effectively with professional colleagues. Manages time effectively. Documents appropriately in the medical records and completes other documentation duties accurately and efficiently according to policies and procedures.
• Remains current in respiratory care through continuing education, participation in services, and review of journals. Assists in clinic education efforts for patients, staff, hospital, system and/or the community.
• Ensures safe care to patients, staff and visitors; adheres to all Memorial Hermann policies, procedures, and standards within budgetary specifications including time management, supply management, productivity and quality of service.
• Promotes individual professional growth and development by meeting requirements for mandatory/continuing education and skills competency; supports department-based goals which contribute to the success of the organization; serves as preceptor, mentor and resource to less experienced staff.
• Demonstrates commitment to caring for every member of our community by creating compassionate and personalized experiences. Models Memorial Hermann’s service standards by providing safe, caring, personalized and efficient experiences to patients and colleagues.
• Other duties as assigned.