Pulmonary Function Lab Coordinator
University of Maryland Medical System

Job Requirements

Schedule Details

7am - 4:30pm

Under general supervision, performs a variety of diagnostic pulmonary function studies including spirometry, pre and post bronchodilator studies, lung capacity and diffusion capacity studies, lactulose breath tests & Hydrogen breath testing, walking pulse oximetry studies, among other studies to record lung function essential in the diagnosis of obstructive and restrictive lung disease. Additionally, provides administrative support for department including scheduling, training, reporting, and ordering of supplies.

Principal Responsibilities and Tasks

The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so classified. Studies are performed on both in patients and out patients.

1. Performs pulmonary function tests (PFT) on patients in order to record lung functions.

A. Explains procedure to patients in an age appropriate manner. Explains testing procedure to patient and/or family before performing.

B. Makes proper adjustments to PFT equipment to troubleshoot equipment. Maintains compliance with recommendations per the American Thoracic Society, the National Board for Respiratory Care, the American Association for Respiratory Care and other governing bodies.

C. Participates in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) procedures, including, airway management, manual ventilation, and cardiac compressions as needed.

D. Observes and monitors physical signs and symptoms, general behavior, general physical response to respiratory care testing procedures. Collaborates with physician regarding diagnostic testing plans to determine whether initiation, modification, or discontinuation of the treatment regimen is warranted.

E. Terminates patient treatment upon notice of patient discomfort, troubled medical status, or inability to perform tests.

2. Operates, calibrates, and maintains Pulmonary Diagnostic equipment including the spirometer, the breath analyzer, and medical gasses as required.

3. Schedules patient testing during operating hours of the pulmonary lab.

4. In addition to patient testing, the PFT coordinator will assume responsibility for the following administrative obligations:

A. Order supplies for the department as needed to ensure patient care needs are met

B. Order office supplies as needed to maintain efficient work space

C. Establish quality metrics and report routinely to Director

D. Coordinate meetings with Medical Director and pulmonary function staff regularly for continuity, as needed or established as necessary for operations

E. Completes scheduling for Pulmonary Diagnostics department and addresses needs in a timely manner

F. Trains new staff at time of hire

G. Trains staff for continuing competency

H. Track and report monthly patient care volumes

I. Acts as a liaison and advocate for the pulmonary diagnostics department

Education and Experience

1. High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) is required.

2. BLS is required.

3. Certification by the National Board for Respiratory Care as a Certified or Registered Pulmonary Function Technician credential; OR Certified or Registered Respiratory Therapist with Maryland State Licensure is required.

4. A minimum of three years' experience as a Pulmonary Function Technician is required.