ASRT Code of Ethics
Radiation therapists are held to a very specific code of ethics. This code of ethics
is put in place and enforced by the American Society of Radiologic Technology. Their
guide consists of 5 different rules that can be applied to any field involving radiologic
technology and some principles can be applied to all healthcare professions. This code of
ethics specifically relates to the field of radiation therapy.
The first rule states that the radiation therapist advances the principal objective of
the profession to provide services to humanity with full respect for the dignity of
mankind. (Washington & Leaver, 2010, pg 22) This rule relates to being knowledgeable
in the field and making sure you know what you need to do to correctly treat patients.
You should be able to provide treatment to anyone that needs it in a correct and
professional manner. Therapists can apply this code by doing all coursework and
successfully passing a registry exam to obtain a license. They can be sure they are
comfortable with all types of patients and setup, and go beyond to learn something they
are unsure of. In clinical training, this was applied by completing all coursework and
observing different therapists perform their jobs. Also by actively engaging in patient
setups and treatment, more knowledge was able to be gained, making the process feel
more comfortable.
The second code set forth by the ASRT is that the radiation therapist delivers
patient care and service unrestricted by concerns of personal attributes or the nature of
disease or illness, and without discrimination on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, or
socioeconomic status. (Washington & Leaver, 2010, pg 22) This would mean that the
radiation therapist should provide and unbiased and consistent care to each patient
without discriminating against others. A therapist should also leave personal views and
opinions out of treating patients, only giving them facts that they are certain of.
Therapists can apply this code of ethics by treating all patients equally and not
judging anyone. If someone needs special or extra attention, take the time to assist them.
Treat patients as you would like to be treated if you were a patient. This is applied in
clinical training by greeting every patient with a warm welcome and a smile. They treat
everyone with the same respect and give attention to everyone. Different patients may
need extra time to get on and off the table or extra time dressing, so we are patient with
everyone and give them as much time as needed.
The third rule states that the radiation therapist assesses situations, exercises care,
discretion, and judgment; assumes responsibility for professional decisions and acts in
best interest of patient. (Washington & Leaver, 2010, pg 22) This means that radiation
therapists should act professional in all situations and use their best judgment. They
should evaluate all situations and choose the best plan that would benefit the patient and
give the best possible treatment.
Therapists can apply this code by taking caution while setting patients up and
treating them. They should double check everything they do and try to be as accurate as
possible. In clinical training this is applied by always being cautious of the patient and
double checking all setups. If I as the student were to set up a patient, a therapist would
double check everything that I have done. Also any changes or questions that come up
should be brought up and confirmed with the doctor.
The fourth code states that the radiation therapist adheres to the tenets and
domains of the scope of practice for radiation therapists. (Washington & Leaver, 2010, pg
22) This code means that therapists should do everything that their job entitles but only
while staying in the scope of practice. They should be able to perform all aspects required
of a radiation therapist but all should be within what the certification allows them to do.
They should avoid things like offering patients diagnosis or progress reports.
Therapists should treat and do everything that is required of them to successfully
do their job to apply this code. They should avoid doing anything that is outside of their
scope of practice, unless asked by a doctor who takes the responsibility. In clinical
training, as a student you are not allowed to actually treat a patient. This can be applied
by working with another therapist to do all of the setups and having them perform the
actual treatment. Also having another therapist double check any moves you may decide
need to be made and anything else that may be questioned.
The fifth rule of the code of ethics states that the radiation therapist actively
engages in lifelong learning to maintain, improve and enhance professional competence
and knowledge. (Washington & Leaver, 2010, pg 22) This means that therapists should
do things to further their education. .They should keep up with current methods and also
stay current with new technology. Attending conferences and reading up on new material
can be a good way to stay current in the field and keep track of up and coming
technology.
Therapists can follow this code by participating in continuing education such as
conferences or the ASRT website to obtain CE credits and promote further learning. In
clinical training this is applied by attending chart rounds/ tumor boards, attending any
conferences that may come up, and also participating in any other continuing education
that presents.
If these codes are not being recognized, several consequences may be applied.
Individuals professional license, permit, registration or certification can be denied,
revoked or suspended and may be placed on probation, consent agreement or order,
voluntarily surrendered subjected to any conditions or failing to report any of the
violations or actions to the AART. Also you could receive a misdemeanor, felony or
other fines.( American Society of Radiation Technologists)
These codes are very important to anyone in the radiologic technology field and
should always be followed. As a therapist, always try your best while staying within your
scope of practice. Treat all patients with respect and always remain professional. Follow
these codes and you will be a great therapist.
References:

American Society of Radiation Technologists. (n.d.). ASRT Code of Ethics.
Retrieved June 3, 2013, from www.asrt.org/docs/practicestandards/codeofethics.pdf

Washington, C. M., & Leaver, D. T. (2010). The Ethics and Legal Consideration
of Radiation Therapy . Principles and practice of radiation therapy (3rd ed., pp.
22-28). St. Louis, Mo.: Mosby Elsevier.