Radiation Therapists
Dosimetrist, Radiation Therapist (RT), Registered Radiation Therapist, Staff Radiation Therapist
What they do:
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.
On the job, you would:
- Position patients for treatment with accuracy, according to prescription.
- Administer prescribed doses of radiation to specific body parts, using radiation therapy equipment according to established practices and standards.
- Follow principles of radiation protection for patient, self, and others.
Knowledge
Business
- customer service
- administrative services
Arts and Humanities
- English language
Health
- medicine and dentistry
- therapy and counseling
Math and Science
- physics
Skills
Basic Skills
- listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- reading work related information
Problem Solving
- noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Social
- understanding people's reactions
- changing what is done based on other people's actions
Abilities
Verbal
- listen and understand what people say
- communicate by speaking
Ideas and Logic
- notice when problems happen
- order or arrange things
Hand and Finger Use
- keep your arm or hand steady
- hold or move items with your hands
Attention
- pay attention to something without being distracted
Personality
People interested in this work like activities that include helping people, teaching, and talking.
They do well at jobs that need:
- Attention to Detail
- Concern for Others
- Dependability
- Cooperation
- Integrity
- Self Control
Technology
You might use software like this on the job:
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Medical software
- eClinicalWorks EHR software
- Sun Nuclear MapCHECK
Graphics or photo imaging software
- Image processing software
Education
Education: (rated 3 of 5)
associate's degree or
bachelor's degree
usually needed
bachelor's degree
usually needed
Job Outlook
Average
New job opportunities are likely in the future.
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See more details at O*NET OnLine about radiation therapists.