How do they match: Radiation Therapists

  • Radiation Therapy Technician

  • Provide radiation therapy to patients as prescribed by a radiation oncologist 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.

  • Act as liaison with physicist and supportive care personnel.
  • Check for side effects, such as skin irritation, nausea, or hair loss to assess patients' reaction to treatment.
  • Conduct most treatment sessions independently, in accordance with the long-term treatment plan and under the general direction of the patient's physician.
  • Educate, prepare, and reassure patients and their families by answering questions, providing physical assistance, and reinforcing physicians' advice regarding treatment reactions or post-treatment care.
  • Follow principles of radiation protection for patient, self, and others.
  • Help physicians, radiation oncologists, or clinical physicists to prepare physical or technical aspects of radiation treatment plans, using information about patient condition and anatomy.
  • Implement appropriate follow-up care plans.
  • Maintain records, reports, or files as required, including such information as radiation dosages, equipment settings, or patients' reactions.
  • Observe and reassure patients during treatment and report unusual reactions to physician or turn equipment off if unexpected adverse reactions occur.
  • Photograph treated area of patient and process film.
  • Position patients for treatment with accuracy, according to prescription.
  • Review prescription, diagnosis, patient chart, and identification.
  • Schedule patients for treatment times.

  • Enter patient or treatment data into computers.
  • Examine patients to assess general physical condition.
  • Explain medical procedures or test results to patients or family members.
  • Inform medical professionals regarding patient conditions and care.
  • Interact with patients to build rapport or provide emotional support.
  • Monitor patient conditions during treatments, procedures, or activities.
  • Position patients for treatment or examination.
  • Protect patients or staff members using safety equipment.
  • Schedule patient procedures or appointments.
  • Supervise patient care personnel.
  • Verify accuracy of patient information.