Summary
The radiation oncology nurse works closely with the Radiation Oncologist and radiation oncology team in total care of the patient.
They develop and implement an individualized plan of care for each patient.
Distributes and explains information regarding treatments and department procedures.
Informs patient's regarding implants, brachytherapy and other special procedures.
Obtains current medical history and assists with physical exams.
Works with the physicist, physician and staff in coordinating activities throughout the department.
Responsibilities
- (35%)
- The radiation oncology nurse works closely with the Radiation Oncologist and radiation oncology team in total care of the patient. They develop and implement an individualized plan of care for each patient. Distributes and explains information regarding treatments and department procedures. Informs patient's regarding implants, brachytherapy and other special procedures. Obtains current medical history and assists with physical exams. Works with the physician to implement and evaluate an individualized plan of care for each patient referred for radiation therapy on a regular basis. (25%)
- Records and reports to physician patient daily clinical data, i.e., labs and images. Implements special interventions for patients with abnormalities as ordered per radiation oncologist. Has a full understanding of the electronic medical record and uses it to document all clinical data and notes. (15%)
- Observe and monitor physical and psychological effects of radiation therapy. Responds to acute and emergent changes in patient condition within the department. Offers phone consultation to patients experiencing treatment difficulties. (15%)
- Performs nursing care procedures. Coordinates the ordering/dispensing of medications under the direction of the Radiation Oncologist. Complete in-depth education regarding radiation therapy to the patient. (10%)
- Coordinates hospital transfers and admissions. Acts as liaison between admitting physician and radiation oncologist. Coordinates referral of patients to subspecialties and to university settings when ordered per physician. Responsible for transfer of appropriate information and education to patient and family. OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Maintains compliance with State and JCAHO requirements in regard to radiation safety and protection for patients and staff. Attends scheduled in-services to review policy/procedure and safety measures. Participates in process improvement activities. Contributes to the development of students in the department and is responsible for teaching and completing radiation therapy student competencies. May be asked to rotate to another Radiation Therapy center to cover staff shortages or fluctuations in patient volume. Has a thorough understanding of proper billing practices and is able to use site specific office management system for scheduling and billing. Performs and documents proper charge capture for all procedures performed. MyMichigan Health is a technology driven organization and employees need to demonstrate competency in Microsoft Windows. An employee may be required to participate in further learning opportunities offered by MyMichigan Health. Other duties as assigned.
Certifications and Licensures
Credential: BLS: Basic Life Support
Equivalent Experience
- Within 1 month of hire or transfer.
- Qualification
- Source:
- AHA
- Essential: true
- Credential:RN: Registered Nurse
Equivalent Experience
- Qualification
- Source:
- Essential: true
Required
Education: Associates degree
Other Information
Experience, training and skills
- Knowledge of general nursing technique with knowledge of organizational functions, policies and regulations including current and evolving trends and developments in the field. Demonstrates the ability to effectively communicate with others in person and on the telephone. Radiation oncology nursing experience preferred. Knowledge and experience with the current radiation oncology electronic medical record used in the clinic/department preferred.
- Physical/Mental
- Requirements
- AND
- TYPICAL
- WORKING
- CONDITIONS: Exposure to stressful situations, including those involving public contact, as well as trauma, grief and death. Able to wear personal protective equipment that includes latex materials or appropriate substitute if required for your position. Is able to move freely about facility with or without an assisted device and must be able to perform the functions of the job as outlined in the job description. Overall vision and hearing are necessary with or without assisted device(s). Frequently required to sit/stand/walk for long periods of time. May require frequent postural changes such as stooping, kneeling or crouching. Some exposure to blood borne pathogens and other potentially infectious material. Must follow MyMichigan Health bloodborne pathogen and TB testing as required. Ability to handle multiple tasks, get along with others, work independently, regular and predictable attendance and ability to stay awake. Overall dexterity is required including handling, reaching, grasping, fingering and feeling. May require repetition of these movements on a regular to frequent basis.
- Physical
- Demand
- Level: Medium. Must be able to occasionally (0-33% of the workday) lift or carry 21-50 lbs., frequently 34-66% of the workday 20 lbs. and or Walk/Stand/Push/Pull of Arm/Leg controls and constantly (67-100% or the workday) 10 lbs.
Equivalent Experience and Other Comments (Education)
