Säteilyhoitaja

Säteilyhoitaja is a Finnish term that translates to Radiation Therapist in English. A säteilyhoitaja is a healthcare professional who works in radiation oncology departments. Their primary role is to administer radiation therapy treatments to patients diagnosed with cancer. This involves operating sophisticated radiotherapy equipment, such as linear accelerators, under the guidance of radiation oncologists and medical physicists.

The duties of a säteilyhoitaja are multifaceted. They are responsible for accurately positioning the patient for treatment according to the prescribed plan, ensuring the radiation dose is delivered precisely to the target area while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This requires a thorough understanding of anatomy, radiation physics, and the technical aspects of the treatment equipment. They also play a crucial role in patient care, providing support and information to patients and their families throughout the course of treatment, which can often be physically and emotionally demanding.

Säteilyhoitajat are trained to monitor patients for any immediate side effects of the radiation, communicate these observations to the medical team, and implement appropriate management strategies. They also participate in quality assurance procedures to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the radiation therapy services. The profession requires a strong commitment to patient well-being, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary healthcare team.