Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The post holder will also lead the strategic and operational development of the ECMO service, including the design and implementation of training programs to uphold the highest standards of evidence-based practice in line with national and international guidelines. The role will also involve developing external networks and representing the nursing profession at national and international levels, actively contributing to the advancement of the ECMO service through engagement in appropriate forums and professional platforms.

As the Lead Nurse for Paediatric ECMO, you will hold professional accountability for all aspects of ECMO patient care, practicing autonomously at an advanced level, aligned with the National Service Framework for ECMO. You will make critical clinical decisions based on your education, evidence-based practice, and clinical experience, always in collaboration with the wider multidisciplinary team to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.

Your role will involve shaping and guiding the vision for the development of paediatric ECMO services, advising on best practices within the speciality, both locally and nationally. You will represent the Trust at regional and ODN meetings, offering expert advice and collaborating on the implementation of ECMO clinical care pathways across the regional network.

In this leadership position, you will drive the continuous improvement of care through audits, evaluations, and evidence-based decision-making, while ensuring consistency of care and effective communication within the multidisciplinary team. You will foster a positive culture of questioning and innovation, pushing forward new practices to enhance the quality of care both locally and nationally.

Your critical thinking and structured problem-solving approach will be pivotal in maintaining the highest standards of care. You will also ensure that the multidisciplinary team stays updated on the latest ECMO protocols and clinical advances.

Acting as a role model, you will promote best practice and develop the clinical expertise within the team. You will lead initiatives to share best practice through the ECMO and PICU forums, advocating for improvements in patient care. Additionally, you will provide specialist clinical advice on the ongoing development needs of the ECMO service.

You will maintain a detailed in-house database on all ECMO patients, ensuring accurate documentation of clinical courses, complications, and outcomes. As part of your leadership role, you will oversee the submission of high-quality data to the Extra Corporeal Life Support Organisation (ELSO), ensuring the continued excellence of our ECMO service.