Radiation Therapist -FT, PT & PRN

Essential Functions

• Operate radiation-producing equipment to treat cancer patients; utilizing beam direction devices and bolus materials as prescribed.
• Perform imaging as prescribed. Evaluate images and shift appropriately for treatment.
• Follows prescribed course of radiation treatment and verifies plan with the Radiation Oncologist to ensure and promote quality patient care.
• Operates the CT simulator and with knowledge and confidence. Works closely with the Radiation Oncologist and Medical Physicist in developing a preliminary treatment plan. Completes simulation documentation.
• Administers oral and IV contrast as required for the simulation.
• Can proficiently navigate the ARIA treatment software. Input treatment fields and make minor changes to the patients’ daily dose, total dose, total treatments, etc., when necessary.
• Checks printed treatment plan -vs- ARIA before patient begins treatments.
• Communicates upcoming simulations or boost plans on task pad in advance to promote a smooth transition between treatment plans.
• Positions and immobilizes the patient for treatment and simulation as prescribed by the Radiation Oncologist and is able to duplicate set-up for treatment. Takes digital photos of treatment area and uploads them to ARIA.
• Makes sure patient safety protocols are followed and effectively applies policies relative to safety and infection control.
• Communicates effectively with the Radiation Oncologist to gain understanding of treatment prescription.
• Helps maintain and organize patient chart. Performs chart audits as requested.
• Considers and applies knowledge of age specific factors in the care, treatment, and education of patients; newborn through geriatric.
• Accurately documents and maintains treatment records of each patient and reports any complications to the Radiation Oncologist.
• Communicates effectively with the Radiation Oncologist, Medical Physicist, and other staff on changes to the patient’s treatment status when appropriate.
• Aid other Radiation Therapists and personnel in accurate documentation and performance of quality assurance procedures.
• Check water level of accelerator and keep equipment in good working order. Report any mechanical problems or malfunctions to the director and/or vendor as necessary.
• When time permits, assist with clerical duties.
• Routinely inventories supply to ensure supplies are available as needed for patient treatments and simulations.
• Charges appropriately for simulations and treatments.
• Interacts with patients, families, physicians and hospital staff to coordinate care.

Qualifications

• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Technical knowledge of radiation treatment equipment.
• Knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, pathology, radiation physics, and radiation safety.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with customers and staff.
• Experience: If eligible, take and pass registry within 6 months after graduation.

Physical Demands

• May require frequent sitting.
• Requires full range of body motions.
• May require frequent standing and walking.
• Requires occasional lifting of 75 lbs.
• Requires occasional lifting and carrying of 50 lbs.
• Requires occasional handling and lifting patients of 75 lbs. and 75 lbs. with assistance.
• Requires vision and hearing corrected to normal range.
• Requires working under stressful conditions and occasional extended hours.
• Requires exposure to communicable diseases, radiation, sharps, hazardous materials, and body fluids.

Working Conditions

• Work is predominately during normal business hours, Monday through Friday.
• However, some ariations may occur depending on workload and staffing.
• Emergency on-call status may apply.