Radiation Therapist II

Job Profile Summary

This role focuses on using various imaging techniques and practices to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of patients. In addition this role focuses on performing the following Therapeutic Radiation duties: Prepares patients and administering radiation treatments for cancer and some other conditions. Takes precise measurements of patients for treatments and takes the proper steps to protect the patients and themselves from improper exposure to radiation. A clinical technologist role that has specialized knowledge or skills gained through a combination of vocational education training and experience. This role will be most commonly applied to patient care and/or scientific/laboratory jobs. An experienced level role requiring basic knowledge of job procedures and tools obtained through work experience and requiring vocational or technical education. Works under moderate supervision works through problems of a routine nature but may at times require interpretation or deviation from standard procedures and communicates information that requires some explanation or interpretation.

Job Overview

With minimal supervision the radiation therapist applies ionizing radiation to the patient in accordance with the prescription and instructions of the radiation oncologist consistent with accepted standards of practice in radiation oncologist consistent with accepted standards of practice in radiation therapy technology.

Job Description

Minimum Qualifications:

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Three (3) years of experience in radiation therapy.

Duties and Responsibilities: The duties and responsibilities listed below are intended to describe the general nature of work and are not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned.

1. Delivers accurately the prescribed planned course therapy with minimal supervision.

2. Checks prescription consent forms diagnosis chart patient identification photograph and daily treatment times prior to delivering dosage.

3. Explains procedures to patients to alleviate fears and apprehensions.

4. Reinforces Radiation Oncologists advice to patient regarding reactions to treatments and care of the area being treated.

5. Observes patient for any reactions secondary to radiation treatment (i.e. skin reactions and intestinal disorders) and reports these findings to the Radiation Oncologist and/or nurse.

6. Prepares room and equipment for each patient in accordance with the prescription (i.e. immobilization devices field size wedges bolus distance and positioning).

7. Escorts patients to and from treatment/similar room.

8. Transfers patients safely from stretchers and wheelchairs to treatment couch while employing proper body mechanics.

9. Closely monitors patients at all times during treatment and simulation by use of visible and audible communication (closed circuit monitors and intercom system) and is prepared to stop treatment immediately and assist patient if necessary.

10. Assists in simulations with the Radiation Oncologist.

11. Assists in Dosimetry procedures such as calculations and contours.

12. Assists in weekly on treatments visits.

13. Participates in patient chart conferences.

14. Performs daily physics checks (machine calibrations) on all equipment to determine if any malfunction exists with the treatment machines and reports any findings to the appropriate personnel.

15. Maintains daily record treatment received total dose and any port films taken in patient chart in a legible and orderly fashion. Documents any changes or modifications clearly in chart. Dates and initials all changes. Records events and incidents to advance the concept of quality improvement.

16. Use IMPAC computer system for charge capture scheduling and checklists.

17. Copies any films and/or charts when necessary.

18. Performs minor clerical duties such as answering the phone scheduling patients and photocopying etc.

19. Takes weekly port films in accordance with established guidelines.

20. Obtains outside films and/or reports as necessary.

21. Maintains orderly and clean therapy department with particular emphasis on patient areas and the laundry/linen area.

22. Transfers blocks into treatment room and organizes them according to established guidelines.

23. Maintains film file area in a neat and organized manner.

24. Prepares technical aspects of patient chart and labels sim films accordingly.

25. Prepares diagnostic procedures using sterile technique when required in a manner consistent with standard practice.

26. Routinely monitors accessory equipment such as pendant cables wedges etc. for signs of any malfunctions or problems and notifies proper personnel for repair and/or maintenance.

Physical Requirements:

1. Frequent standing occasional sitting & walking lifting of 30-35 lbs.

2. Pushing pulling & moving stretchers and machines.

3. Requires manual dexterity using fine hand manipulation to diagnostic equipment and computer keyboard.

4. Hearing and visual sufficient to perform examinations observe patients read monitors and documents hear equipment and hospital alarms.

5. Close contact with patients having contagious diseases.

6. Exposure to radiation used to treat patients.

7. Frequent contacts with patients physicians patients families and other personnel throughout the hospital.

Skills & Abilities:

1. An in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology is also so the technologist can evaluate laboratory data past medical history and pertinent symptoms to tailor the ultrasound examination to each patient individually in a safe accurate and timely manner.

2. Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills.

3. Attention to detail is required for ensuring patient education safety comfort as well as discussing clinical situations with physicians.

4. Ability to concentrate for long periods of time under various conditions while treating patients.

5. Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served in his/her assigned service area.

6. Ability to work independently to perform exams and will seek out assistance from others and supervisor as necessary.

7. Displays good judgment and works through a problem with creativity and remains focused and professional.

8. Responds to changes and/or stats in the work schedule in a calm and appropriate manner.

9. Demonstrates cooperation with co-workers and management to ensure an atmosphere that is conductive to high quality patients care.

10. Knowledge of handling of blocks and proper use of all equipment.

11. Knowledge of standard practice consistent with quality care.