Radiation Therapist

Radiation Therapist

Facilitates the preparation and administration of radiation therapy treatments to oncology patients as prescribed by the radiation oncologist, including documentation and patient education. Work is performed under the general supervision of a radiation therapy supervisor and is evaluated by conformance to established standards and procedures.

Responsibilities and scope:

• Operates and monitors the linear accelerator to administer radiation therapy in accordance with physician's instructions and patient's treatment plan, including both routine and complex treatments according to established practices and standards. Accurately reproduces patient position for treatment, utilizing immobilization devices and treatment aids as prescribed. Obtains patient imaging per physician order to ensure reproducibility and accuracy.
• Performs CT simulation of patients, assisting radiation oncologists, clinical physicists, dosimetrists and others as necessary to prepare physical and technical aspects of radiation treatment plans, using information about patient condition and anatomy. Constructs custom immobilization devices and treatment accessories as ordered by physicians.
• Maintains accurate documentation for patient record, including patient positioning, radiation dosages, equipment settings, patient imaging, field changes, patient reactions, scheduling, and billing according to department policies and procedures, and as directed by the radiation oncologist.
• Prepares equipment and room for patient. Uses appropriate protective equipment and procedures to ensure safety of patients, self and others. Performs equipment quality assurance procedures per state and federal guidelines. Performs quality assurance checks on patient's records per department policy.
• Monitors patient throughout the course of treatment. Recognizes and documents radiation side effects as well as unusual reactions or events. Provides patient education and communicates all information with the Radiation Oncologist and Radiation Oncology nurse.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Graduation from an accredited school of Radiation Therapy

• Radiation Therapy certification by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)

• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification

Preferred:

• One year work experience as a radiation therapist