Radiation Therapist

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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 :

1. Associate's degree in Radiologic Science.

2. Certification in Radiation Therapy from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (AART).

3. Licensed by the Massachusetts Radiation Control Board.

4. Basic Life Support (BLS) Certification.

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

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 Oncologist's 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 required 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 patient's care.

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

11. Knowledge of standard practice consistent with quality care.

Tufts Medicine is a leading integrated health system bringing together the best of academic and community healthcare to deliver exceptional, connected and accessible care experiences to consumers across Massachusetts.

Comprised of Tufts Medical Center, Lowell General Hospital, MelroseWakefield Hospital, Lawrence Memorial Hospital of Medford, Care at Home - an expansive home care network, and large integrated physician network.

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity and inclusion at Tufts Medicine. Tufts Medicine does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, national origin, gender identity and / or expression, marital status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

Please contact us to request accommodation by emailing us at careers@ .