Radiation Therapist

About the role

This role focuses on providing medical and clinical support services to patients. It involves performing therapeutic radiation duties such as preparing patients for treatments, taking precise measurements, and protecting patients and themselves from improper exposure to radiation.

Responsibilities

• Delivers accurately the prescribed planned course therapy with minimal supervision.
• Checks prescription, consent forms, diagnosis, chart, patient identification photograph, and daily treatment times prior to delivering dosage.
• Explains procedures to patients to alleviate fears and apprehensions.
• Reinforces Radiation Oncologist's advice to patient regarding reactions to treatments and care of the area being treated.
• 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.
• Prepares room and equipment for each patient in accordance with the prescription, (i.e. immobilization devices, field size, wedges, bolus, distance, and positioning).
• Escorts patients to and from treatment/similar room.
• Transfers patients safely from stretchers and wheelchairs to treatment couch, while employing proper body mechanics.
• 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.
• Aids in simulations with the Radiation Oncologist.
• Aids in Dosimetry procedures such as calculations and contours.
• Aids in weekly on treatments visits.
• Participates in patient chart conferences.
• 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.
• Maintains daily record treatment received, total dose, and any port films taken, in patient chart, in a legible and orderly fashion.
• Dates and initials all changes.
• Documents any changes or modifications clearly in chart.
• Records events and incidents to advance the concept of quality improvement.
• Uses IMPAC computer system for charge capture, scheduling, and checklists.
• Copies any films and/or charts when necessary.
• Performs weekly port films in accordance with established guidelines.
• Obtains outside films and/or reports as necessary.
• Maintains orderly and clean therapy department with particular emphasis on patient areas, and the laundry/linen area.
• Transfers blocks into treatment room and organizes them according to established guidelines.
• Maintains film file area in a neat and organized manner.
• Prepares technical aspects of patient chart and labels sim films accordingly.
• Prepares diagnostic procedures using sterile technique when required in a manner consistent with standard practice.
• 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.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in Radiologic Science.
• Certification in Radiation Therapy from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
• Licensed by the Massachusetts Radiation Control Board.
• Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification.

Qualifications

• One (1) year of experience in radiation therapy.

Skills & Abilities

• An in-depth knowledge of anatomy and physiology.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Manual dexterity using fine hand manipulation to diagnostic equipment and computer keyboard.
• Hearing and visual sufficient to perform examinations, observe patients, read monitors and documents, hear equipment and hospital alarms.
• Close contact with patients having contagious diseases.
• Exposure to radiation used to treat patients.
• Frequent contacts with patients, physicians, patients’ families, and other personnel throughout the hospital.

Benefits

Starting Day 1 — including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Generous PTO package with 30 days off to recharge and enjoy life outside of work. Career growth opportunities with pathways to train and advance into other radiology modalities. Retirement match with immediate 100% vesting in your contributions — your future starts building right away.

Pay

Pay Range: $40.53 - $51.67

Schedule

Monday - Friday, 7:00am - 3:30pm or 7:30am - 4:00pm No call, weekends or holidays required.