Sleep and Niv Physiologist

Note that this role is not exclusive to physiologists. Allied Health Professionals and registered nurses with a suitable background are encouraged to apply.

To be able to, with training, perform and analyse respiratory sleep studies including home sleep apnoea tests (NOX), transcutaneous CO2 monitoring, oximetry, respiratory polygraphy and actigraphy, as well as virtual set up of sleep study equipment when required. Further training in Polysomnography, MSLT and MWT tests can be provided following completion of respiratory based diagnostic test competencies.

After a period of training, to be able to independently set up and carry out any calibration, testing and system checks necessary in relation to diagnostic and therapeutic equipment in adherence to relevant departmental standard operating procedures (SOP).

To be able to, with training, participate in the sleep CPAP to include virtual telemonitoring services and face to face appointments for initiation, troubleshooting and follow up appointments including a drop-in clinic, with appropriate reporting of the appointment (such as compliance reports, mask fitting and humidification). This will be across a variety of CPAP brands, models and modes. Further training on NIV and participation in NIV clinics can be provided following completion of CPAP competencies.

To be able to, with training, perform and interpret blood gas (capillary) results, spirometry and SNIP tests as part of the NIV clinics with the consultants.

To be professionally and legally accountable for all aspects of work performed as an employee of the sleep & ventilation service at all times.

To undertake all clinical duties or responsibilities deemed necessary, with appropriate education and training by Senior staff.

To download and store patient data from all diagnostic and therapeutic equipment in accordance with departmental policies and procedures.

To actively participate in the sleep and ventilation roster to include 08:00-16:00, 08:30-16:30, 09:00-17:00, 11:00-19:00, 13:00-21:30 and Weekend shifts.

To participate in MDT meetings to discuss patients’ therapy and diagnostic studies, as well as communicating and supporting other trust staff with use of our equipment and interpretation of results. This extends to liaising with external clinicians and companies as and when needed under the direction of a manager.

To help with training of new staff in the department, assist in their inductions, as well as training to external NHS staff as and when needed.

To aid in service development projects and their implementation, as well as implementing trust and local agreed policies.

To support any equipment troubleshooting including returns to the manufacturer, or Baywater engineering company.

To abide by the departmental protocols and standard operating procedures (such as SOP’s, competencies and guidelines) and to update these under the direction of managerial staff.

To maintain self and departmental development with CPD and appropriate training as agreed with managerial staff during annual appraisals.

To be able to handle direct patient care in domiciliary and acute settings, with appropriate respect, dignity and privacy.

To understand and maintain excellent standards of infection control with regard to personal space and for all equipment used within the department.

To be aware of personal limitations and seek advice from Line Manager or other appropriate Senior staff member when necessary.

To be able to escalate and concerns or problems relating to standards of patient care or conduct appropriately to the management team including chief physiologists, band 8a lead for sleep and ventilation and consultants as and when needed.

To complete all mandatory training as defined by the trust.

To have effective communication skills so as to work as part of a wider team to ensure smooth and effective running of the service.

To participate in a weekly stock check and report to managers for ordering.

To deputise for the senior physiologists in their absence.

To be actively involved in departmental research projects as and when required.

To perform general administrative, IT and housekeeping duties as and when required.