Job Description
Job Description
Position: Radiation Therapist
Location: East Syracuse, NY 13057
Schedule: Monday-Friday
Supervision received: Reports directly to Chief of Radiation/Imaging Services
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES
Operates linear accelerator, simulator, and x-ray developer as directed by physicians.
TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Requires manual and finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination for operation and repair of all department equipment.
- Lifts and carries items weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Lifts patients weighing up to 300 pounds and positions them appropriately for operation of equipment.
- Requires eyesight correctable to 20/20 to operate equipment and review developed films.
TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS
- Exposure to communicable diseases, toxic substances, ionizing radiation, medicinal preparations, and other conditions common to a clinic environment.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
- Positions patients and adjusts equipment for simulation and radiation treatments following established procedures.
- Instructs patients regarding procedures.
- Observes patients for vital signs during treatment and monitors for any side effects to report to nurse or physician.
- Follows prescribed safety standards in operating radiologic equipment.
- Selects length and intensity for radiation exposure by adjusting simulator on an individual patient basis.
- Selects monitor units on linear accelerator according to plans to deliver prescribed treatment.
- Performs daily checks on accuracy of linear accelerator according to prescribed guidelines.
- Participates in weekly chart round meetings and serves on quality assurance committee.
- Authorizes release of patients upon completion of treatment or simulation.
- Develops and processes radiologic film and delivers it to radiation oncologist for verification.
- Maintains treatment rooms and stocks necessary medical and radiological supplies.
- Cleans and makes minor adjustments to radiologic equipment.
- Aids physician in contrast studies.
- Attends required meetings and participates in committees as requested.
- Enhances professional growth through education programs, conferences, and workshops.
- Maintains patient confidentiality.
- Performs related work as required.
PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Knowledge of anatomy and physiology to sufficiently pinpoint areas for simulation and treatment.
- Knowledge of radiology equipment and testing.
- Knowledge of safety hazards common to radiation, including equipment, body mechanics, and patient movement.
- Skill in properly positioning patients to provide quality planning and treatment.
- Skill in training student therapists and co-workers in equipment operation and procedures.
- Skill in troubleshooting equipment operation and performing simple adjustments.
- Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with patients, medical staff, and the public.
- Ability to apply written guidelines and standardized work practices.
- Ability to identify problems and communicate clearly.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- Completion of a course in radiation therapy approved by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
- One year of experience as a radiation therapist preferred.
CERTIFICATE/LICENSE
- Current certification (ARRT) with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.