If you ever wonder what a Radiation therapist job is, then this article is for you.
A radiation therapist will work under the guidance of a Radiation Oncologist, in a team of health professionals who care for and treat cancer patients. They are usually assigned to work on a rotating basis in one of three main areas: simulation, planning, and treatment.
A radiation therapist is an Allied Health Professional who uses ionizing radiation to treat disease, usually cancer. A radiation therapist is also responsible for collecting relevant patient information and using this information to plan a patient’s treatment. Simulation involves the gathering of all relevant data to plan and treat the patient.
The radiation therapist will read through the patient’s notes and look at any tests or radio graphic scans such as x-rays, CT and MRI the patient may have had, to determine where the tumor is located. When the patient arrives, the radiation therapist will explain the process to the patient and answer any questions. It is important the radiation therapist is empathetic, yet professional as it can be an emotional time for the patient and their family.
A radiation therapist will work under the guidance of a Radiation Oncologist, in a team of health professionals who care for and treat cancer patients. They are usually assigned to work on a rotating basis in one of three main areas: simulation, planning, and treatment.
Becoming a radiation therapist takes between two and four years to obtain your desired degree. An associates degree takes two years to complete, and a Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy takes four years to complete. While you can become a radiation therapist with only an associates degree, many employers prefer their therapists to have a bachelor's degree in order to be considered for the position.
The demand for radiation therapists has been steadily increasing over the past decade and continues to grow. In 2017, the national median salary for a radiation therapist was $80,570. Job growth for the radiation therapy field is expected to grow 13% in the next 10 years.
Radiation therapists are responsible for supporting the patient throughout their treatment. They must have compassion and strong interpersonal skills. Part of their role is to listen to the emotional concerns and anxieties of the patient and refer them appropriately if needed. The radiation therapist will also assess the patient’s reaction to treatment, providing advice on the side effects of treatment and methods of alleviating these. Radiation therapists often develop close relationships with their patients, as they usually see them five days per week for between three and seven weeks.
Much of a radiation therapist's typical day is spent on her feet. Therapists also position equipment and lift and move patients for treatment. This heavy lifting presents risks of back, arm or leg injuries. Therapists may also struggle with the stress that comes from forming emotional bonds with patients. As patients come in for regular treatments, therapists build a rapport with them, setting the therapist up for being upset if the patient becomes very sick or dies.
The chances are low, since the robot won't be able to provide a patient emotional support like a human do. This line of work needs a human touch and you won't get that with new technology. For now at least.
It's a great job where people who love to help and take care of everyone can go. You can really bond with a patient and some places even pay for you to continue school. Overall, the job is perfect for someone with ambition and who loves to make life a better place for everyone.
Rationale: to inform or educate
Date: still relevant
Rationale: to inform or educate
Date: still relevant