Therapeutic Radiologic Technologist (Radiation Oncology Service)

Therapeutic Radiologic Technologist

Therapeutic Radiologic Technologists (TRT) deliver prescribed high doses of therapeutic radiation for the purpose of treatment of cancer and abnormal cell growths. TRT's assist in the localization of tumors, participate in treatment planning, and deliver high doses of ionizing radiation as prescribed by the radiation oncologists. These treatments are performed by utilizing a linear accelerator.

Functions:

• Perform procedures for consultation, simulation, treatment planning, and treatment delivery
• Keep current of any changes. Maintain detailed and accurate daily records of technical, legal and statistical components of treatment
• Schedule treatments such that linear accelerator times are optimized while still leaving some flexibility for emergency treatment times.
• Deliver prescribed therapeutic radiation for the treatment of cancer and other abnormal growths
• Take patient's identification photo for display in the patient's treatment chart
• For the initial treatment/filming, set up tattoos provided by CT simulation team following all setup instructions and using all prescribed devices
• Take SSD readings and obtain isocenter verification films
• Perform port film imaging as required
• Document all changes in patients' chart and observe patient's condition daily
• Able to recognize the need for emotional and psychosocial support for patients
• Refer patients to departmental staff and other health care professionals as necessary
• Reinforce radiation oncologist's recommendations regarding general activities, diet, prevention and treatment of reactions to radiation therapy
• Perform quality control measurements of all treatment machines by taking readings every morning prior to patient treatments using the physics quality assurance program for each energy level
• Identify each patient by required identification protocols per hospital policy before each simulation and treatment is delivered/time out.
• Communicate with medical staff on other floors/units for quality patient care
• Follow HIPAA guidelines regarding patient privacy
• Enter all pertinent daily information into patient's CPRS/VISTA, record regarding number of treatments and doses given for other hospital personnel to utilize in patient care
• Maintain detailed and accurate daily records of technical, legal and statistical components of treatment
• Practice radiation safety protocols to limit exposure to patients, staff and self in compliance with department and VA radiation safety procedures to maintain the principles of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).
• Perform daylight film processor procedures and ensures the processor is operating optimally when being used, and contacts processor engineer if problems occur
• Maintain treatment rooms and equipment in a clean, neat, safe condition and keep treatment room supplies at an adequate level
• Notify supervisor/physics staff about treatment equipment issues
• Report all environmental and other equipment problems to the proper authorities
• Notify physicians if this will impact patient care and/or treatment. Perform irregular hour's emergency treatments during the clinics off hours including after hours, weekends, and holidays. The therapist on call must be available to arrive within two hours of notification to ensure the best emergency care is given to the patient
• Work with Radiation Oncologists, Dosimetrists, nursing and clerical staff plus fellow radiation therapists to develop teamwork to effectively and efficiently accomplish the goals of the radiation therapy department
• Continually keep current with new developments in the field of radiation therapy and keep licensing and continuing education requirements up to date
• Keep current on treatment machine characteristics including various energy and output levels. Operate equipment to determine correct dose and field uniformity
• Provide patient with accurate and compassionate treatment and acts as a supportive caregiver
• Follow established safety practices and report to facility director or administrative service manager as promptly as possible if issues arise as to unsafe conditions, unsafe practices, or any occupational illness or injury
• Adhere to all safety and health standards regulations, work practices, and use proper protective equipment as needed
• Participate in reviewing, revising or authoring policies and procedures that need attention. Perform accurate charge capture, documentation and CPT codes
• Other duties as assigned

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm

Telework: Not available

Virtual: This is not a virtual position.

Relocation Incentive: May be authorized

EDRP Authorized: Former EDRP participants ineligible to apply for incentive. Contact View email address on click.appcast.io for questions/assistance. Learn more

Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized