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Get the inside scoop!
Radiation therapists are key members of the professional team that manages and cares for cancer patients. They administer radiation treatments using a variety of sophisticated machines such as linear accelerators and cobalt units. These machines generate x-rays, gamma rays, electron beams and other types of radiation.
Radiation therapy may be used alone or in combination with surgery or chemotherapy. For most radiation therapy treatments, this is how it works:
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First, the patient is evaluated. Through a process called simulation, the radiation therapist uses a special x-ray machine to define the exact place on the patient's body where the radiation will be aimed. This area is called the treatment port.
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The radiation therapist then works closely with the radiation oncologist and other members of the therapy team to develop a customized treatment plan. The team determines the type and amount of radiation to be used.
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The radiation therapist explains the treatment procedures to the patient, answers questions and provides reassurance and physical assistance.
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The radiation therapist adjusts the radiation equipment and positions the patient according to the treatment plan.
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To avoid radiation exposure, the therapist then moves to an adjoining room to operate the equipment from a safe distance.
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During treatment, the radiation therapist monitors the patient's condition through windows or closed-circuit TV monitors.
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The radiation therapist maintains detailed records of all therapy sessions. These records are reviewed by physicians and other members of the radiation team.
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Though radiation therapists work with some of the most sophisticated tools of modern medicine, their job is focused on compassionate care. Through daily contact, radiation therapists build close relationships with their patients and play a major role in their support system.
Is this career for you?
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Do you have an interest in science and mathematics? |
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Do you like to help people? |
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Are you nurturing and compassionate? |
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Do you possess strong interpersonal and communication skills? |
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Are you detail oriented? |
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Do you possess good manual dexterity and physical stamina?
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If so, a career as a radiation therapist might be for you. Radiation therapists often work with patients who are gravely ill and under stress.
Because of this, radiation therapists must be compassionate and emotionally strong. They must be able to maintain positive, nurturing relationships with their patients on a long-term basis.
Radiation therapists must also be detail oriented. They must enjoy applying their knowledge of mathematics and physics on a daily basis since their work requires precise calculations and safe operation of sophisticated equipment.
Radiation therapists should also possess good manual dexterity and physical stamina since they may need to lift or turn disabled patients.
Want to know more?
Jump over to Day in the Life and spend a "virtual day" with a practicing radiation therapist. |
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©2002 UNMC School of Allied Health Professions
Designed and Developed by
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