Radiation Therapist

Radiation Therapist

According to established procedures, assists physicians by treating patients with prescribed doses of ionizing radiation supplied and controlled through specialized radiation equipment. In doing so, prepares treatment room, explains procedures to patients, positions patients and administers treatments and obtains images. Monitors patients during therapy sessions to ensure patients' comfort and to observe changes in patients' condition. Simulates patient treatment according to the treatment plan and designs and constructs custom treatment devices for individual patients. Demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide patient care that is appropriate to the ages of the patients served. Participates in a variety of clerical duties necessary for department functioning.

• Quality Work Assurance - Conducts all aspects of job in an ethical manner in support of hospital's commitment to ethical behavior in all areas of personal and professional activity. Demonstrates knowledge of and follows Carle Health Methodist's infection control plan and emergency procedures specific to Radiation Center. Documents all necessary information in the performance of technical procedures and quality control measures. Maintains compliance and is responsible for executing and monitoring technical practices in order to meet necessary standard recommendations and requirements of government agencies (i.e., IDPH, ACR, FDA, JCAHO, OSHA).
• Daily Work Duties - Works in collaboration with members of the interdisciplinary team to assure care is coordinated across the continuum. Communicates effectively inter and intra departmentally with other healthcare professionals and customers to provide accurate, timely information, and to reduce problems and minimize exceptions. Communicates with the department supervisor/director and documents as necessary when problems or unusual circumstances arise. Performs CT simulations independently, consistently, effectively and accurately. Performs daily quality assurance checks, delivers daily treatments and operates the TrueBeam and Edge Therapy machines using the highest safety standards. Accurately and consistently sets up patients for treatment. Provides service in a timely manner. Participates in making recommendations to the department leader regarding utilization of supplies, equipment and quality improvement. Performs clinical setups proficiently. Performs computerized documentation on the electronic medical record (ARIA) that is timely and accurate, including order entry, billing and coding functions. Ensures appropriate treatment codes are charged for various treatment modalities and related positioning devices. Enters appropriate treatment data into the record and verify system as well as knowledge of system at a level consistent with the ability to problem solve. Demonstrates knowledge of digital equipment/computers and PAC's. Works extended hours to meet clinic needs when necessary.
• Process Work Improvement - Identifies ways to improve processes, recommends solutions and implements appropriately. Measures outcomes and utilizes data to recommend changes. Seeks out opportunities to learn and grow both interpersonally and functionally. Attends in-services, CPR/AED training, on the job training, and continuing education programs to meet developmental needs and keep abreast of new technologies. Performs functions other than described as assigned. Completes competency validation process as assigned by supervisor/director. Demonstrates initiative to improve quality, leading at a minimum quarterly QA meetings. Communicates with the department supervisor/director and documents as necessary when problems or unusual circumstances arise.