In QA processes, what should ideally be done at each start of the TPS?

In the context of Quality Assurance (QA) processes related to Treatment Planning Systems (TPS), the ideal practice at the start of TPS operations involves running the checksum utility. This procedure serves a critical function by verifying the integrity of the software and ensuring that the system is working correctly by checking for any discrepancies or errors in the software's configuration. By performing this verification step, dosimetrists can confirm that the algorithms and data being used for treatment planning are accurate and reliable, which is essential for patient safety and effective treatment delivery.

In contrast, while testing the radiation survey meter, calibrating the treatment machine, and documenting patient data are all vital aspects of the overall QA process, they are not specifically related to the initialization of the TPS. Testing the radiation survey meter is important for confirming safety and dose measurements; calibrating the treatment machine ensures that it delivers the correct dose to patients; and documenting patient data is critical for record-keeping and treatment planning, but these actions do not directly address the condition of the TPS software itself at the start of its operation.