Radiation therapists use specialized equipment to administer radiation therapy to patients. Radiation therapy is a form of cancer treatment that uses high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing and dividing.
Radiation therapists work closely with oncologists, doctors who specialize in the treatment of cancer, and other medical professionals to provide the best care possible to their patients. They must be able to work with people who are sick and suffering as well as with other healthcare professionals.
Radiation therapists must also be able to work independently and follow strict safety guidelines when administering radiation treatments. They must pass certification and licensing exams before they can practice as radiation therapists or become certified as a clinical specialist in radiation therapy (CST).
Radiation Therapist Schools In Pa
Radiation therapists use radiation in medical treatment. They work with oncologists, surgeons and other health care professionals to treat cancer patients.
Radiation therapists must be able to explain the process of radiation therapy clearly and accurately so that patients understand how they will be treated. This requires excellent communication skills as well as patience and empathy. Radiation therapists also should have a high level of technical knowledge about the equipment used in radiation therapy and how it works.
Radiation therapists may also need to administer drugs, perform testing and interpret results. Radiation therapy is a growing field, with more than 40,000 jobs expected to be added by 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).