Erie Community College, State University of New York

RADIOLOGIC TECHNOLOGY: RADIATION THERAPY TECHNOLOGY

Program Competencies

Upon graduation with an Associate in Applied Science degree in Radiologic Technology: Radiation Therapy, the graduate will be able to:

• Deliver a planned course of radiation therapy
• Verify the mathematical accuracy of the prescription for radiotherapy
• Maintain daily records and document technical details of the radiotherapy treatment administered
• Observe the clinical progress of the patient undergoing radiation therapy, observe the first signs of any complications, and determine when treatment should be withheld until a physician may be consulted
• Provide patient care and comfort essential to radiation therapy procedures
• Within the scope of practice for a radiation therapy technologist, detect equipment malfunctions; report same to the proper authority; and know the safe limits of equipment operation
• Understand the functions, limitations and utilization of radiotherapy equipment and treatment accessories, detect malfunctioning equipment
• Apply the rules and regulations for radiation safety, detect radiation hazards and other hazards to patient welfare within the scope of practice for the radiation therapy technologist
• Simulate and plan a prescribed course of radiotherapy treatment
• Construct immobilization and beam-directional devices for external beam radiotherapy
• Assist in the preparation of brachytherapy sources, calibration of radiotherapy equipment, and the maintenance of quality assurance procedures and records
• Assist in exam room procedures, patient follow-up, patient educational procedures for the radiotherapy patient
• Provide basic patient care and cardiopulmonary resuscitation
• Communicate clearly and effectively in written, verbal, and nonverbal form
• Demonstrate an awareness of the ethical and legal responsibilities of radiation therapy technologists