Day in the Life: Radiation Therapist

Marilynn Clayton is a Certified Radiation Therapist at our center and has more than 30 years of experience in radiation oncology. As a radiation therapist, she plays a key role in ensuring patient comfort and safety during treatment.

Read more about her role as a radiation therapist:

What are your major tasks each morning?

I start my day by calibrating the CyberKnife^® and other equipment used in the radiation oncology department. Next, I take quality assurance x-rays to ensure the treatment beam is accurate. Once all equipment is within state guidelines and functioning properly, I proceed with scheduled patient appointments.

What are your daily tasks to assist patients?

My role is focused on the patient. I help to schedule patients’ treatment sessions to accommodate needs, both socially and physically. To prepare for treatment, I explain the procedure to the patient and make sure they are positioned correctly and are comfortable. I then begin treatment, monitoring the position of the patient and tumor throughout the procedure. I establish a patient’s breathing pattern and utilize the CyberKnife’s ability to synchronize treatment to the motion of the tumor during respiration. Once treatment is complete I ensure the patient is well informed and make sure I have answered any questions to their satisfaction.

What are your daily tasks to assist with the physician team?

I follow the doctors prescription and make sure the target radiation dose is delivered accurately. I attend weekly meetings to reviews patients’ charts for quality assurance and attend monthly meetings with the CyberKnife team to brainstorm new methods for patient care.

What aspect of your job do you enjoy the most?

I enjoy working with such great colleagues. My job also allows me to meet interesting people and know I am instrumental in their road to recovery.

 

This is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your health care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.