The Radiation Oncology Therapist at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center Croatia is responsible for delivering radiation treatments to patients as prescribed by the Radiation Oncologist and performing CT simulations. Other duties will include assisting the physician or nurse in the administration of contrast agents used during treatment localization, performing measurements for use during treatment planning, collecting and documenting data acquired during the simulation procedure, and accurately inputting treatment-related data into the record and verify system.
Responsibility
Clinical Operations Duties:
- Performs treatment, simulation, fabrication of immobilization devices and shielding, radiosurgery, and brachytherapy procedures when applicable, according to written prescription and treatment plan.
- Performs measurements for use during treatment planning calculation.
- Collects and documents data acquired during the simulation procedure and accurately inputs treatment-related data into the electronic medical record.
- Provides safety in patient care through the consistent practice of departmental procedures for treatment administration.
- Recognizes deviation from prescribed treatment delivery and reports all deviations to the Chief Therapist/Physicist.
- Assures the quality of treatment delivery through the complete and accurate documentation of treatment records.
- Assures the quality and consistency of treatment portal placement by taking portal images according to departmental procedures.
- Explains treatment procedures to patient and/or family.
- Responds effectively to patient concerns and refers medical questions to appropriate personnel.
- Under the direction of a Radiation Oncologist, takes localization images according to planned treatment delivery.
- Assists the physician or nurse in the administration of contrast agents used during treatment localization.
- Uses effective communication techniques and interpersonal skills to provide explanations for treatment-related procedures.
- Observes patients for expected and unexpected reactions to treatments and communicates this to appropriate staff members.
- Maintains a safe, orderly treatment room.
- Under the direction of the Chief Therapist, provides on-call coverage as needed.
- Has a good understanding of information systems and is fluent in all computer applications necessary to perform the job.
Quality Program Duties:
- Prioritizes patient safety.
- Performs and documents daily and weekly QA activity for assigned equipment and notifies the Chief Therapist and physicists of deviations that exceed tolerance. Participates in programs to measure and improve the quality of care within the Department, such as Patient Experience, Quality Improvement Measures, Chart Rounding, and Department Meetings.
- Works collaboratively with the Radiation Oncologist and all team members to maintain high standards for quality service.
Regulatory Affairs Duties
- Participates in regulatory compliance activities and maintains continuous departmental readiness for inspections and surveys.
- Follows all radiation safety standards.
- Wears radiation monitoring badge and I.D. badge at all times.
Completes clinical competencies annually as required.
- Communicates any equipment issues to the appropriate site leadership.
- Participates in training programs required to maintain Certification.
Fiscal Duties:
- Participates in accurate and complete charge capture activities.
- Notifies appropriate site leadership of supply needs.
- Maintains travel expenses according to policy.
- Performs other duties as assigned.