Radiation Therapist PT & PRN

About the role

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.

Responsibilities

• Operate radiation-producing equipment to treat cancer patients; utilizing beam direction devices and bolus materials as prescribed.
• Perform imaging as prescribed and evaluate images to shift appropriately for treatment.
• Follow prescribed course of radiation treatment and verify plan with the Radiation Oncologist.
• Operate the CT simulator with knowledge and confidence.
• Work closely with the Radiation Oncologist and Medical Physicist in developing a preliminary treatment plan.
• Complete simulation documentation and administer oral and IV contrast as required for the simulation.
• Navigate the ARIA treatment software proficiently; input treatment fields and make minor changes to the patient’s daily dose, total dose, total treatments, etc., when necessary.
• Check printed treatment plan against ARIA before patient begins treatments.
• Communicate upcoming simulations or boost plans on task pad in advance to promote a smooth transition between treatment plans.
• Position and immobilize the patient for treatment and simulation as prescribed by the Radiation Oncologist and duplicate set-up for treatment.
• Take digital photos of treatment area and upload them to ARIA.
• Monitor patients during treatments and simulations to ensure patient safety protocols are followed and effectively apply policies relative to safety and infection control.
• Communicate effectively with the Radiation Oncologist to gain understanding of treatment prescription.
• Help maintain and organize patient chart; perform chart audits as requested.
• Consider and apply knowledge of age specific factors in the care, treatment, and education of patients; newborn through geriatric.
• Accurately document and maintain treatment records of each patient and report any complications to the Radiation Oncologist.
• Communicate effectively with the Radiation Oncologist, Medical Physicist, and other staff on changes to the patient’s treatment status when appropriate.
• Assist 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.
• Assist with clerical duties when time permits.
• Routinely inventory supply to ensure supplies are available as needed for patient treatments and simulations.
• Charge appropriately for simulations and treatments.
• Interact with patients, families, physicians and hospital staff to coordinate care.

Qualifications

• 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.

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. and frequent lifting and carrying of 20 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 variations may occur depending on workload and staffing. Emergency on-call status may apply.