Job Posting Title Pulmonary Function Technician (PFT)

What You Will Do:
We are currently searching for Pulmonary Function Technician (PFT) to provide technical services for pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients under the general direction of a physician within a unique clinical research environment.  The PFT will work closely with clinicians in obtaining research data for clinical protocols by performing standard pulmonary function tests, cardiopulmonary exercise tests, and other modalities of exercise testing. This is a full-time, on-site opportunity in Bethesda, MD.

• Perform standard pulmonary function tests, measurements of lung volumes and airway resistance by body plethysmography, measurements of airway resistance and reactance by the impulse oscillometry technique, and methacholine bronchoprovocation tests.

• Review orders and verify pre-study administrative procedures.

• Set up diagnostic instruments and perform quality control measures on PFT testing and exercise systems to ensure the equipment functions safely and efficiently; troubleshoot issues as needed.

• Administer pulmonary function tests (PFT), cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPET) and exercise tests which may include the collecting of arterial blood gases, exhaled nitric oxide measurements, 6-minute walk tests, impulse oscillometry tests (IOS), methacholine challenge testing, etc.

• Ensure patient safety and comfort during studies by monitoring physiological responses; consult with a physician in the event of an adverse reaction and provide first aid as needed.

• Document pertinent clinical information in patient electronic medical records.

• Order and maintain the necessary laboratory supplies.

• Demonstrate test procedures to trainees and other health care personnel as needed.

• Assist lead contact for pulmonary function laboratory in troubleshooting issues, interacting with equipment technical support, and performing quality assurance (QA).

• Analyze data to ensure that measurements are within acceptable limits.

• Assist in developing standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the pulmonary function laboratory for the following tests: CPET, methacholine challenge testing, exhaled nitric oxide, and pulmonary function testing by IOS.

• Support special projects as assigned.

• Promote a culture of quality patient care and safety ensuring that direct or indirect clinical services of any form are delivered in a safe, effective, and patient-centered manner.

• Provide responsive service to internal and external customers that support customer and program requirements.

• Actively identifies, communicates, and implements quality improvements that ensure attainment of workforce goals.

Assist coworkers by mentoring, advising, or guiding them in understanding work assignments as appropriate

• Maintain necessary licensure and up-to-date knowledge regarding new policies and technologies to support the research and clinical mission.

• Participate with supervisor to establish individual performance plans, developmental needs, and provide self-assessments if required. Complete all assigned training before the due date.

What You Will Need:

• Graduated from a respiratory care program, accredited by COARC or CAAHEP, OR has significant knowledge of pulmonary physiology, and PFT testing experience.

• At least 4 years of experience.

• Possesses, or can obtain, a valid [1] BLS provider card and [2] either an ACLS or PALS card.

• Proven clinical skills related to PFT testing with adult, pediatric and/or geriatric patients.

• Demonstrated ability to work with adult and pediatric patients and their families/ caregivers.  

• COARC = Commission on the Accreditation of Respiratory Care; CAAHEP = Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs

What Would Be Nice To Have:

• Able to participate in QA testing, data collection, and equipment troubleshooting and maintenance preferred

• Working with patients with respiratory illnesses and infections is strongly desired

• Maintain patient privacy

• Configure, maintain and demonstrate testing equipment.

• Strong written and oral communication skills