Proton Radiation Therapist - Second Shift

Summary of Job Duties

Radiation Therapist will maintain a higher level of vigilance in patient preparation, immobilization, alignment, image-guidance interpretation and beam delivery as prescribed by a radiation oncologist. Expected to work quickly and efficiently at all times.

Must be able to or willing to learn how to review x-ray images with heightened demand for accuracy, notifying the clinical team of any discrepant findings. Must understand the intricacies of the proton machine, one of the most sophisticated and labor-intensive treatment delivery systems available in the United States with the Proton Center of Arkansas being only one of 46 operational centers. Must have a deeper understanding of and training in principles of particle therapy.

Required to communicate and work in tandem with an on-site engineering team provided by the device vendor and assist in making decisions when managing much more frequent downtime situations and be expected to have more flexibility due to potential for extended/make-up hours. In addition, must be able to perform CT simulations and QACTs appropriate for proton treatment and dose assessment.

Under the direct supervision of the Clinical Operations Director; responsible for radiation therapy procedures, dose calculations, chart and routine consistency checks on the treatment machine and simulator during a treatment day, five days a week. This is subject to overtime, cross coverage of photons, and call back as required by the center. Training can be provided on site upon hire.

Responsibilities

• Performs proton therapy procedures according to physician's orders and departmental guidelines, determines and prepares set-up within established parameters, calculates monitor units and records patient treatment information in the EMR, while maintaining confidentiality.
• Maintains and submits daily patient EMR information, charges, schedules, and census.
• Assesses and evaluates patient needs and treatment related issues, recommends intervention and acts in accordance with physician practices and departmental policies while maintaining confidentiality.
• Regularly investigates problems or unsatisfactory procedures and recommends possible solutions.
• Performs checks on patient's EMR for accuracy and proper documentation according to established procedures.
• Schedules patients for daily treatments.
• Maintains quality control of patient EMR and treatment parameters by implementing guidelines on a regular basis.
• Maintains room cleanliness, linens and needed supplies in treatment room and notifies proper personnel of areas needing attention.
• Evaluates, teaches and monitors the clinical and didactic education of radiation therapist, dosimetry, clinical resident, physics resident, and diagnostic students.
• May perform other duties as assigned.

Note: The proton therapists will be expected to have more flexibility than normal due to the fact that there is only one proton unit. In the event of system downtime, the treatment day is commonly extended or rescheduled to assure all patients are treated.