NUCLEAR MEDICINE TECHNOLOGIST
Nuclear medicine is an area
of diagnostic imaging which uses radioactive tracers to detect or treat
disease. Nuclear medicine technologists (NMT) prepare, measure and administer
radioisotopes (elements of chemicals that are radioactive). NMTs determine
the drug required for testing; prepare stock solutions and calculate doses;
make calculations for the tests after validating data; explain the test
procedure to the patient; position the patient and the machine; assist
in or administer radiation to the patient; operate scanning devices; perform
laboratory tests on body specimens; dispose of radioactive waste and store
radiopharmaceutical waste safely; calibrate equipment; and control inventory.
Technologists are supervised by the Nuclear Medicine Chief Technologist
or by a physician. They usually work alone, operating equipment or conducting
laboratory tests; although, they sometimes work in the operating room with
the physician. Technologists use protective lead shielding and follow rigid
laboratory techniques to minimize the hazards of exposure to radiation.
Education
An applicant for an associate
degree in nuclear medicine technology must complete at least two years
of study and hospital training. An applicant for the baccalaureate degree
program in Nuclear Medicine Technology must have completed at least 60
semester hours of postsecondary education in one of the following three
ways: 1. general college study including courses in math and science, 2.
radiologic technologist with an associate degree or equivalent or 3. clinical
laboratory technologist or medical laboratory technician. The nuclear medicine
component of the degree program requires two years of study and hospital
training. A baccalaureate degree in nuclear medicine technology is awarded
upon completion of the program. The student is eligible to take a national
competency examination after completing the associate or baccalaureate
degree.
Registration/Certification/Licensure
There are currently no state
requirements. Certification can be obtained through The Nuclear Medicine
Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) and The American Registry of Radiologic
Technologists (ARRT). One must pass the national examination to be identified
as a Certified Nuclear Medicine Technologist (CNMT).
Salary
$22,000 - 50,000
Employment Opportunities
NMTs work in specialized laboratories
in hospitals, diagnostic centers, research facilities, public health institutions
and educational institutions.
Programs
Professional Association
Society
of Nuclear Medicine - Technologist Section
1850 Samuel Morse Drive
Reston, VA 20190
(703) 708-9000
Last updated: February 3, 2003