Diagnostic Radiographer

Job Description

Job Purpose

The Diagnostic Radiographer in the Radiotherapy Department is responsible for conducting imaging on patients in the treatment position using the CT simulator and others. This role involves ensuring precise imaging for radiation treatment planning, patient positioning, and the safe delivery of radiotherapy treatments. The radiographer works closely with radiation oncologists and medical physicists to assist in creating accurate treatment plans, providing high-quality patient care, and ensuring radiation safety.

Core Responsibilities

CT Simulation and Treatment Positioning

• Perform CT simulations for radiotherapy planning by accurately positioning patients in the treatment position using the CT simulator.
• Assist in patient immobilization using devices like masks, vac bags, or positioning aids to ensure consistent and reproducible treatment positions for radiation delivery.
• Work closely with radiation oncologists and medical physicists to ensure proper scanning protocols are followed for accurate treatment planning.
• Monitor patient comfort and safety during the simulation, addressing any concerns or discomfort.

Imaging Quality Assurance

• Ensure high-quality imaging by properly setting up and operating the CT simulator to capture images with optimal clarity and diagnostic quality.
• Review and verify images to ensure that they meet the required standards for treatment planning, documenting any adjustments or additional imaging required.
• Assist in the verification of the patient’s anatomical structures and tumor localization for radiotherapy treatment planning.

Collaboration and Communication

• Collaborate with the radiation oncology team to ensure the accurate transfer of CT imaging data for treatment planning and radiation dose calculations.
• Communicate effectively with patients to explain the imaging process, answer questions, and ensure understanding of the importance of the positioning for treatment.
• Work with radiation therapists to ensure the correct positioning and treatment setup is achieved prior to each radiation therapy session.

Radiation Safety and Patient Care

• Ensure adherence to radiation safety protocols, including proper shielding, positioning, and monitoring of radiation exposure levels during imaging.
• Maintain a patient-centered approach by providing clear instructions, managing patient anxiety, and ensuring patient comfort during imaging sessions.
• Document and track treatment setup parameters and ensure that CT simulation data is accurately stored for future reference.

Quality Assurance and Equipment Maintenance

• Conduct regular quality assurance (QA) checks on radiation therapy equipment, ensuring machines are calibrated, functional, and provide accurate dose delivery.
• Collaborate with medical physicists to verify that treatment plans and radiation doses are delivered accurately and in compliance with safety standards.
• Ensure compliance with radiation safety protocols, managing radiation dose and exposure during treatment and minimizing risks to patients and staff.

Collaboration and Communication

• Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team, including oncologists, medical physicists, and radiation therapists, to discuss patient treatment plans and progress.
• Communicate clearly with patients and their families, explaining treatment procedures, potential side effects, and answering any questions regarding their care and the treatment process.
• Provide emotional support to patients and their families, addressing concerns related to the treatment journey.

Patient Education

• Educate patients about the radiation therapy process, helping them understand what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
• Guide patients in managing potential side effects, explaining self-care techniques, and providing post-treatment instructions to support recovery.

Radiation Safety

• Ensure adherence to radiation protection protocols, including correct shielding, patient positioning, and monitoring radiation exposure to guarantee patient and staff safety.
• Participate in radiation safety training programs and contribute to the development and enforcement of departmental radiation safety policies.

Qualifications

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Radiography or a related field, with a focus on therapeutic radiography.
• Advanced certifications or additional training in oncology radiography or radiation therapy are preferred.
• Completion of post-basic training in oncology or hematology

Professional Requirements

• Registered Radiographer with a professional certification (e.g., Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria).
• Certification in radiation therapy and safety protocols is an added advantage

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in therapeutic radiography in brachytherapy
• Experience in operating radiation therapy equipment (such as linear accelerators) and following oncology-specific treatment protocols is required.
• Knowledge of oncology treatment protocols, patient management, and radiation safety in a therapeutic context is essential.

Competency Requirements

Knowledge Requirements

• Strong understanding of CT simulation techniques and treatment planning protocols in radiotherapy.
• Knowledge of radiation safety protocols and patient positioning techniques for accurate imaging.
• Familiarity with immobilization devices and their use in achieving consistent treatment positioning.

Skill Requirements

• Demonstrable skills in written and spoken English that are adequate to enable effective communication about medical topics with patients and colleagues.
• Attention to detail and quality.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Personal Abilities

• Professional attitude towards work
• Shares AMCE’s vision
• Adaptability.
• Proactive and organized.
• Commitment to improving quality of patient care.
• Personal and professional credibility
• Supportive, approachable, and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members
• Honesty and integrity
• Physical stamina for standing and manual labor

Additional Information

African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja) aims to be an Employer of Choice, providing equal opportunity for everyone regardless of their background, gender, race and other protected characteristics.