Job Summary
The Radiation Oncology Linear Accelerator Radiographer plays a crucial role in the healthcare system, particularly within the field of oncology. This position involves operating advanced radiation therapy equipment, specifically linear accelerators, to deliver precise doses of radiation to patients diagnosed with cancer. The radiographer must possess a deep understanding of radiotherapy techniques and patient care principles, ensuring that treatments are administered safely and effectively.
In this role, the radiographer will collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team, including oncologists, medical physicists, and nurses, to develop and execute individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. This involves not only technical skills in operating complex machinery but also strong interpersonal skills to support patients emotionally throughout their treatment journey. The radiographer will be responsible for explaining procedures to patients, addressing their concerns, and monitoring their reactions to treatment.
The position requires a commitment to maintaining high standards of patient safety and quality assurance. The radiographer must perform regular checks on equipment functionality and adhere strictly to safety protocols to minimise risks associated with radiation exposure. Additionally, the role entails keeping accurate records of treatment sessions and participating in ongoing professional development to stay updated with advancements in radiotherapy practices.
As the healthcare landscape evolves, the demand for skilled radiation oncology professionals continues to grow. This role not only requires technical proficiency but also a compassionate approach to patient care. The successful candidate will contribute significantly to improving patient outcomes and enhancing the overall quality of cancer care services in Nigeria.
The responsibilities of the Radiation Oncology Linear Accelerator Radiographer encompass a wide range of tasks critical to effective patient care and treatment delivery:
- Patient Interaction: Engage with patients before, during, and after treatment sessions to provide information about procedures and address any questions or concerns they may have.
- Treatment Planning: Collaborate with oncologists and medical physicists to design personalized radiotherapy plans based on individual patient assessments and diagnostic imaging.
- Equipment Operation: Operate linear accelerators and other advanced radiation therapy machines with precision, ensuring accurate delivery of prescribed doses.
- Quality Assurance: Conduct routine quality assurance tests on radiotherapy equipment to ensure it is functioning correctly and safely.
- Patient Monitoring: Observe patients during treatment sessions for any adverse reactions or side effects, documenting these observations for further review by the oncologist.
- Record Keeping: Maintain detailed electronic records of treatment sessions, including dosage calculations, patient responses, and any adjustments made during therapy.
- Safety Protocols: Adhere strictly to safety protocols regarding radiation exposure for both patients and staff, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work closely with other healthcare professionals within the oncology department to coordinate patient care effectively.
- Education and Training: Participate in ongoing training programs and workshops to enhance professional skills and stay current with technological advancements in radiation therapy.
- Research Participation: Engage in clinical research initiatives aimed at improving radiotherapy techniques and patient outcomes.
- Patient Support: Provide emotional support and counseling to patients undergoing treatment, helping them cope with the psychological impacts of cancer therapy.
- Emergency Response: Be prepared to respond effectively in emergencies related to patient care or equipment malfunction.
Equality and Diversity
- Act as lead for Equality & Diversity in the department to ensure the development and effective implementation of a strategy, set of policies, procedures and monitoring and control systems are in place.
Personal and Staff Development
- Work with HR to undertake recruitment, retention, performance management and development of staff in the team.
- Work with the Recruitment Manager to establish connections with appropriate local, international and online communities to nurture a pipeline of talent to support the growth of the company.
- Responsible for development of high potential employees, providing a structured approach to mentoring and developing critical talent at all levels of management.
Communications And Working Relationships
- Collaborate with oncologists for effective treatment planning.
- Communicate effectively with nursing staff regarding patient needs.
- Build rapport with patients and families for better support during treatments.
- Liaise with medical physicists for technical aspects of treatment delivery.
- Participate actively in multidisciplinary team meetings.
- Provide clear instructions and guidance to junior staff members.
- Document all communications accurately within patient records.
- Address concerns from patients promptly and empathetically.
- Engage in community outreach programs related to cancer awareness.
- Foster a supportive environment among colleagues for knowledge sharing.
Line Management
- Supervise junior radiographers during treatment sessions.
- Conduct performance appraisals for team members under your supervision.
- Manage schedules for staff working within the radiotherapy department.
- Oversee training programs for new hires or interns in the department.
- Facilitate conflict resolution among team members when necessary.
- Ensure adherence to departmental policies among staff members.
- Report staffing needs or issues directly to departmental management.
- Coordinate coverage for shifts during staff absences or emergencies.
- Promote teamwork through regular team-building activities or meetings.
- Lead by example in maintaining professional standards within the workplace.
Organisational Responsibilities
- Ensure compliance with health regulations governing radiotherapy practices.
- Maintain accurate inventory of medical supplies related to radiation therapy.
- Develop protocols for emergency situations involving radiation exposure.
- Participate in budget planning for departmental resources as needed.
- Implement quality improvement initiatives within the department.
- Monitor patient feedback regarding their treatment experiences for service enhancement.
- Contribute to strategic planning discussions within the oncology department.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of advancements in radiation therapy technology.
- Facilitate communication between different departments involved in patient care pathways.
- Uphold ethical standards while delivering patient care services.
Confidentiality
The post holder must be aware that Confidential Information and data to which the post holder will have knowledge and access to in the course of their employment with the AMCE is to be kept confidential, and this confidentiality is a condition of employment. The duty to maintain confidentiality continues even when the post holder is no longer employed.
This information is not to be shared with anyone outside of the AMCE under any circumstances, except to the extent necessary to fulfil any duties and responsibilities required within the role. Furthermore, upon termination with the AMCE Abuja, the post holder will return to the AMCE all confidential information held.
General
The post holder has a general duty of care for their own health, safety and well-being and that of work colleagues, visitors and patients within the hospital, in addition to any specific risk management or clinical governance accountabilities associated with this post.
To observe the rules, policies, procedures and standards of AMCE together with all relevant statutory and professional obligations.
To observe and maintain strict confidentiality of personal information relating to patients, staff and visitors.
To be responsible, with management support, for their own personal development and to actively contribute to the development of colleagues.
This job description is intended as a guide to the general scope of duties and is not intended to be definitive or restrictive. It is expected that some of the duties will change over time and this description will be subject to review in consultation with the post holder. All employees must hold an AMCE email account, which will be the AMCE's formal route for email communication. You are therefore required to check this regularly and to deal with such communication promptly.
Infection Control Statement
The post holder has an important responsibility for and contribution to make to infection control and must be familiar with the infection control and hygiene requirements of this role. These requirements are set out in the AMCE Code of Practice on Infection Control and in local policies and procedures, which will be made clear during your induction and subsequent refresher training. These standards must be strictly complied with at all times.