Highly Specialised Cardiac Physiologist - CRM

• Provide cross-cover and support to the Lead Physiologist(s) for CRM in the day-to-day management and delivery of the CRM service.
• Contribute to the smooth, efficient and effective running of a high-quality clinical service and undertake additional managerial responsibilities as delegated by the Principal Physiologists.
• Work collaboratively within the multidisciplinary team, including Electrophysiology/CRM Consultants, Arrhythmia Nurse Specialists and the Heart Failure team, to support the safe and effective management of patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices.
• Demonstrate and maintain clinical proficiency and competency across a wide range of cardiac physiology techniques, working across interventional catheter laboratories and non-invasive diagnostic services as required.
• Work with the Principal Cardiac Physiologists to develop and implement advanced clinical practices within the department, including Healthcare Scientist/Physiologist-led ILR implantation services.
• Participate in the on-call service for primary angioplasty and the emergency arrhythmia pathway, providing specialist support for urgent and potentially life-threatening cardiac conditions

• Practise as a specialist, autonomous professional in complex CRM device implantation and follow-up, exercising a high level of clinical judgement and decision-making.
• Demonstrate specialist competence in the implantation and management of ILRs, pacemakers, ICDs, CRT-P/D and conduction system pacing (CSP).
• Provide expert clinical and physiological advice to cardiac physiologists, specialist registrars, EP/CRM consultants and the Clinical Lead for EP.
• Develop, maintain and review standards for CRM implantation and follow-up in line with current professional guidance, evidence-based practice and local requirements.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of developments in implantable device technology across a broad range of manufacturers and disseminate relevant information to colleagues.
• Ensure practice complies with relevant national and international guidance, including BHRS, HRS, EHRA, NICE, ESC and SCST, as well as local clinical guidelines and protocols.
• Maintain effective working relationships with other implantation and follow-up centres, facilitating the timely exchange of patient information and minimising disruption to patient care.
• Undertake regular clinical and service audits to monitor compliance with local and national standards and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Participate in routine and advanced cardiac investigations and procedures, including the primary angioplasty and emergency arrhythmia on-call services.
• Administer appropriate medications within agreed scope of practice and maintain all relevant training and competencies.
• Apply and promote evidence-based practice, clinical protocols and procedures at an advanced level, maintaining a high standard of professional competence.
• Interpret and act upon clinical and physiological investigations in accordance with departmental policies, procedures and professional standards.
• Contribute to the development and review of new clinical proposals, protocols and service improvement initiatives.

• Provide training, mentorship and supervision to cardiac physiologists and actively contribute to the training, assessment and competency development of PTP and STP students.
• Support the maintenance and development of the local clinical physiologist training programme and associated departmental training resources.
• Identify educational and training needs for staff, trainees, apprentices and patients, delivering appropriate teaching and feeding back identified needs to the Principal Cardiac Physiologists and education lead.
• Identify suitable clinical and academic projects for PTP and STP trainees and support their delivery.
• Attend relevant courses, conferences and professional development activities and identify appropriate educational opportunities for colleagues.
• Participate in and deliver departmental seminars, teaching sessions and scientific meetings to disseminate knowledge and promote best practice.
• Contribute to audits and quality improvement activities relating to accreditation, assurance, governance and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to the preparation and dissemination of clinical case studies, abstracts and research outputs through appropriate professional or academic publications.

• Contribute positively to the leadership and development of the wider clinical physiology workforce and the effective running of the department.
• Work as an autonomous and accountable practitioner, making independent clinical decisions and providing appropriate support to the Principal Cardiac Physiologists in their absence.
• Take a proactive approach to identifying and minimising clinical risk within the CRM service and support the investigation and management of clinical incidents in conjunction with the Principal Physiologists and Clinical Lead for EP.
• Support the Principal Physiologist for CRM in the identification and management of patients affected by manufacturer advisories, recalls and device safety concerns.
• Independently plan and prioritise workload across daily and weekly activity, delegating appropriate tasks and using available workforce resources efficiently.
• Monitor MHRA device alerts and manufacturer field safety notices and ensure appropriate action is taken in accordance with regulatory and Trust requirements.
• Support the development, implementation and review of CRM protocols and ensure adherence by all staff working within the service.
• Ensure accurate, secure and timely archiving and management of CRM patient records relating to device implants and follow-up, including Pacenet, EPIC and remote monitoring systems, in accordance with Trust policies.
• Maintain effective communication with patients, colleagues and the wider multidisciplinary team using appropriate face-to-face, telephone, video conferencing and electronic communication methods.
• Participate fully in the Trust appraisal, performance review and continuing professional development processes.

Essential

• BSc Clinical Physiology (Cardiology) or equivalent
• Possess IBHRE / BHRS / EHRA (CRM) accreditation
• Intermediate Life Support (ILS)
• Highly developed IT skills

Essential

• Proven competency and advanced knowledge in following up of all CRM devices; complications and ability to troubleshoot these issues
• Good general knowledge of Cardiology to include heart failure
• Awareness and understanding of current health issues
• Good understanding of EP/ CRM device services and recent initiatives
• Good knowledge of clinical trials and guidelines for CRM follow up and implants

Essential

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Leadership skills and ability to work as part of a team
• Skills in teaching/training
• Ability to adapt and respond positively to unexpected issues
• Ability to utilise research in clinical practice, applying an evidence based practice approach
• Good organisational and time management skills
• Proactive approach to quality control and service improvements
• Capable of working with a high degree of autonomy where required