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Career Details : Radiation Therapists

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Description

Provide radiation therapy to patients as prescribed by a radiologist according to established practices and standards. Duties may include reviewing prescription and diagnosis; acting as liaison with physician and supportive care personnel; preparing equipment, such as immobilization, treatment, and protection devices; and maintaining records, reports, and files. May assist in dosimetry procedures and tumor localization.

Experience

A minimum of two to four years of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

Education

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

Tasks

  • Reviews prescription, diagnosis, patient chart, and identification.
  • Maintains records, reports, and files as required.
  • Follows principles of radiation protection for patient, self, and others.
  • Photographs treated area of patient and processes film.
  • Enters data into computer and sets controls to operate and adjust equipment and regulate dosage.
  • Prepares equipment, such as immobilization, treatment, and protection devices, and positions patient according to prescription.
  • Acts as liaison with physicist and supportive-care personnel.
  • Observes and reassures patient during treatment and reports unusual reactions to physician.

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    Important Abilities

    General Work Activities

    Important Skills

    Frequent Work Context

    • Consequence of Error
    • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
    • Importance of Being Sure All Is Done
    • Responsible for Others' Health & Safety
    • Job-Required Social Interaction

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