Radiation Therapist, Casual

Casual position as needed - Monday thru Friday - Daylight hours

Purpose:
Under the direction of a radiation oncologist, delivers radiation treatments to patients as prescribed by the Radiation Oncologist and obtains localization images according to planned treatment delivery. Assists physician or nurse in the administration of contrast agents used during treatment localization. Performs measurements for use during treatment calculation. Collects and documents data acquired during the simulation procedure. Accurately inputs treatment-related data into the verify-and-record system.

Responsibilities:

• Continuing Education Program Management:Participates in training programs required to maintain ARRT Certification.Performs in accordance with system wide competencies / behaviors.
• Clinical Operations: (cont.)Assists in the orientation and supervision of students during clinical rotations.Assists the Chief Therapist in evaluation of student performance.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. Reinforces patient education/side effect management information and indicates non-compliance to medical/nursing staff.Maintains a safe, orderly treatment room.Under the direction of the Radiation Oncology Manager provides On Call coverage as needed.Has a good understanding of information systems and is fluent in all computer applications necessary to perform their job.Assists at other UPMC Radiation Oncology locations if the need arises.
• Fiscal Responsibilities:Participates in accurate and complete charge capture activities.Notifies appropriate site leadership of supply needs.Maintains travel expenses according to policy.Uses all UPMC Cancer Centers resources effectively.
• Clinical Operations: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 calculation. Collects and documents data acquired during the simulation procedure and accurately inputs treatment-related data. 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 physician or nurse in the administration of contrast agents used during treatment localization.
• Regulatory Affairs Management: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.Remains HIPAA compliant at all times. Completes clinical competencies annually as required.Communicates any equipment issues to the appropriate site leadership.
• Quality Assurance / CQI Program Management:Prioritizes patient safety. Performs and documents daily and weekly QA activity for assigned equipment. Documents findings outside the range established by Physics. Notifies the Chief Therapist immediately of findings outside the normal range of operations. Participates in programs to measure and improve the quality of care within the Department, such as Press Ganey, Quality Improvement Measures, Chart Rounding, and Department Meetings.Works collaboratively with the Radiation Oncologist, Manager, and all team members to maintain high standards for quality service.