Senior Radiation Therapist: Per Diem

The Senior Radiation Therapist, operating under the oversight of the Chief and Lead Radiation Therapists, administers prescribed ionizing radiation treatments following protocols established by the Radiation Oncologist.
This position requires autonomous decision-making capabilities in the execution of sophisticated radiation therapy procedures, demanding both advanced technical expertise and the ability to independently evaluate and respond to complex treatment scenarios. Core responsibilities include: the assessment and precise delivery of prescribed radiation therapy regimens; independent verification and meticulous documentation of treatment records; discretionary implementation of radiation safety protocols; execution of specialized procedures;
Training and mentoring staff members and students and self-directed participation in comprehensive quality assurance initiatives.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS, and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations.

We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Clinical Responsibilities:

• Performs radiotherapy on site at assigned department.
• Responsible for daily patient care and education. Appropriately involves the patient and their family in care and care decisions. Maintains and demonstrates respect for patient confidentiality and modesty. Explains all treatment and imaging procedures. Arranges daily radiation treatment schedule. Attentive to patient needs and concerns by continuous monitoring of the patient’s physical and physiological response and reactions to treatment and refer patient for appropriate management as needed.
• Administers radiation therapy treatment accurately and safely, following departmental policy and procedure.

• Positions and immobilizes patients according to the treatment plan and effectively evaluates images according to standard guidelines. Mobilizes patients using appropriate mechanical assistive devices, such as ceiling lifts and lateral transfer devices, during the provision of patient care.

• Assesses patient relative data as deemed pertinent to age-specific needs and provides care as described in the department’s policy and procedure manual.
• Participates in the clinical instruction and evaluation of the Radiation Therapy students. Accurately perform and teach all policy, procedure, and QA measures including New Start and Cone Down chart checks, weekly chart checks, scheduling, treatment procedures, image review guidelines, and billing procedures.

Simulation Procedures:

• Explains simulation procedure, including the administration of permanent tattoos for set up purposes.

• Operates equipment and software, including but not limited to CT scanner and software, Treatment planning software (Eclipse), LAP Lasers, IV contrast Power injectors.
• Create immobilization devices, bolus, and accurately documents set up instructions.

• Assists and interacts with all departmental Radiation Therapists, demonstrating the ability to answer all questions and details pertaining to simulation to ensure quality treatment.
• Participates in the IV contrast program, including Patient Screening, and Peripheral IV placement.
• Administers Oral Contrast.
• Assists in scheduling/rescheduling appointments, as needed.

Administrative Responsibilities:

• Assists the Lead Radiation Therapist in the efficient operation of the assigned clinical area. Performs daily QA measures to ensure proficient operation of all imaging and treatment equipment. Performs daily shutdown procedures. Assists in organizing team during equipment failures and notifies patients as well as all functional areas of the department. Assists in resolving clinical problems and difficult set-ups.
• Assumes Lead responsibilities in the absence of the Lead Radiation Therapist, when requested. Assists the Chief and Lead Radiation Therapist to ensure coverage for meeting attendance and administrative duties.
• Strives for continuous improvements and…