Radiation Therapists

Carry out radiation treatment on patients as directed by a radiation oncologist, according to all applicable guidelines and regulations.

Career Snapshot

ABOUT RADIATION THERAPIST CAREERS

Radiation therapists play an important role in the treatment of cancer patients. They use advanced equipment that uses radiation beams to eliminate malignancies. They work together with physicians and radiologists to plan the safest dose for each patient. They are also known as radiation therapy techs. 

Therapists must be able to move or raise patients in order to correctly position them. They monitor patients during therapy, preserve records of results, and provide patients and their families with guidance and emotional support. 

Radiation therapists are employed in hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities. While day shifts are the most prevalent, some jobs may demand you to work nights, weekends, or evenings. There may be some radiation exposure, but not in harmful proportions. Therapists must always use protective equipment and follow all safety measures. 

To work as a radiation therapist, you must first complete a certificate programme or hold an associate or bachelor's degree in radiation therapy, as well as have some knowledge of medical, dentistry, computers, and electronics. 

Radiation therapists must also pass a national exam in order to be certified. Training programmes are available in community colleges, universities, and some hospitals. Employers frequently favour graduates who have also passed a national certification exam. 

These therapists must be licenced in some states. Radiation therapy is a valuable and widely utilised tool in the battle against cancer. Radiation therapists will be increasingly needed to assist in the use of technology to save lives.

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Characteristics

Work closely with team members, clients etc.
Dealing and handling conflicts
Communication with others
Competition for this position
Job challenge and pressure to meet deadlines
Level of responsibilities
Critical decision making
Leadership
Comfort of the work setting
Exposure to extreme environmental conditions
Exposure to job hazards
Physical demands

Activities

Assisting and Caring for Others Know More
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Know More
Controlling Machines and Processes Know More
Documenting/Recording Information Know More
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Know More
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material Know More
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public Know More
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Know More

Areas of Study

Computers and Electronics Know More
Customer and Personal Service Know More
Education and Training Know More
English Language Know More
Mathematics Know More
Medicine and Dentistry Know More
Physics Know More
Therapy and Counseling Know More

Degrees

Colleges

Top Skills

Active Listening Know More
Coordination Know More
Critical Thinking Know More
Operation Monitoring Know More
Reading Comprehension Know More
Service Orientation Know More
Social Perceptiveness Know More
Speaking Know More