Job responsibilities
Key ResponsibilitiesClinical Testing & Patient Care
- Perform pre- and post-bronchodilator spirometry and FeNO testing for adults and children (age-appropriate protocols and devices).
- Verify patient identity, assess test suitability, and obtain informed consent (parental/guardian consent for children as applicable).
- Deliver clear, age-appropriate instruction and coaching to ensure best effort and reproducible results.
- Monitor patients during and after testing; recognise and respond to adverse events (e.g., bronchospasm, dizziness).
- Apply infection prevention & control measures, including device cleaning, single-use consumables, and safe handling of mouthpieces/filters.
Quality Assurance & Safety
- Adhere to ARTP/BTS spirometry standards and manufacturer-specific FeNO procedures.
- Conduct and document daily calibration/verification and biological control checks per device SOPs.
- Ensure test acceptability and repeatability criteria are met; flag and rectify suboptimal manoeuvres.
- Maintain robust audit trails, equipment logs, and incident reporting (including Datix or local equivalent).
Clinical Interpretation & Reporting
- Produce timely, accurate test reports including predicted values, % predicted, flow-volume curves, and FeNO values.
- Provide initial technical interpretation (e.g., obstructive/restrictive patterns) within competency and SOP scope; escalate complex findings to the Lead Clinician as per pathway.
- Attach results to the patient record via the clinics approved systems; ensure data quality and coding are correct.
Safeguarding & Paediatric Practice
- Practice in accordance with Child and Adult Safeguarding policies (including chaperone use, capacity & consent, and communication with parents/guardians).
- Adapt techniques for children (age-specific mouthpiece sizing, rest periods, coaching styles) while maintaining test validity.
- Escalate concerns promptly to the Safeguarding Lead and document actions.
Communication & Collaboration
- Communicate results and test experiences clearly to patients, families, and the clinical team.
- Work effectively with GPs, nurses, respiratory physiologists, and admin colleagues to optimise clinic flow and patient experience.
- Contribute to service improvement, including SOP updates and feedback on equipment, pathways, and patient information materials.
Information Governance
- Handle patient information in line with UK data protection laws and local policies.
- Ensure secure storage/transmission of test data and accurate documentation in the EHR/clinical systems.
Person SpecificationEssential
- ARTP accreditation (e.g., ARTP Spirometry certification) and competence in FeNO testing.
- Demonstrable experience conducting spirometry (including bronchodilator reversibility) and FeNO in adults and children.
- Strong understanding of test quality criteria, calibration, device maintenance, and infection control.
- Excellent communication and coaching skills; able to tailor approach to different ages and abilities.
- Safeguarding training (Adults & Children) and familiarity with chaperone and consent requirements.
- Ability to work autonomously within SOPs and escalate appropriately.
- Right to work in the UK; willingness to travel to clinic sites within Merton as needed.
Desirable
- Experience in community respiratory services/primary care settings.
- Familiarity with NHS clinical systems (e.g., EMIS/SystmOne) and digital spirometry/FeNO platforms.
- Participation in audit/quality improvement projects.
- Additional respiratory qualifications (e.g., ARTP full accreditation, lung function modules).
- Paediatric-specific training for respiratory diagnostics.
Compliance & Onboarding (Self-Employed Flexi Bank)
- Enhanced DBS (within 3 years or Update Service).
- Occupational health clearance (including immunisation status).
- Evidence of ARTP accreditation and CPD portfolio.
- Professional indemnity/medical malpractice insurance suitable for self-employed practice.
- Proof of right to work and identity.
- Agreement to clinic SOPs, Information Governance, and Safeguarding policies.
- Acknowledgement of IR35 responsibilities and invoicing arrangements.
Working Pattern & Pay
- Sessional, ad hoc shifts (weekday, evening, and weekend clinics as required).
- Pay: Competitive sessional rates (set per clinic schedule); self-employed clinicians invoice monthly.
- Locations: Merton Respiratory Clinic sites and designated Enhanced Access hubs.
Equipment & Systems
- Use of clinic-approved spirometers (with daily calibration/verification) and FeNO devices per manufacturer guidance.
- Documentation via clinic EHR and secure digital testing platforms.
- Access to up-to-date patient information leaflets and pre-test advice (medication withholding, caffeine/exercise guidance, etc.).
Professional Standards & CPD
- Maintain ARTP/BTS practice standards and keep competencies current through CPD.
- Participate in peer review, audit, and service meetings as requested.
- Contribute to SOP review and training of junior colleagues (where appropriate).
How to Apply
Send your CV, proof of ARTP accreditation, and evidence of paediatric competency to: beatrice.dolor@nhs.net
Please include your availability, preferred clinic times, and any travel constraints.
