Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Field of Study — Radiologic Technology
Nuclear medicine technologists prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals (radioactive materials) and then image or measure the radiopharmaceutical distribution in the body in order to detect and treat disease.
Nuclear medicine technologists:
- review physicians’ orders and patients’ records to determine required procedures.
- prepare radiopharmaceuticals, calculate correct dosages and treatment for patients.
- explain procedures to patients.
- position and adjust equipment over the body area to be studied and operate the imaging systems.
- perform computer processing and determine quantitative results from image data.
- perform laboratory tests on body specimens using radioactive substances.
- use quality control techniques to ensure radiopharmaceutical quality and efficient and effective operation of equipment.
- perform research and/or administrative duties.
- use protective lead shielding and constantly monitor the laboratory with radiation detectors to help safeguard the work surroundings.
Work is performed indoors in specialized laboratory or hospital/clinical settings.
Educational Requirements
Students intending to pursue a career as a nuclear medicine technologist should prepare by taking the most challenging high school courses available in science and math.
Nuclear medicine technology programs are available both through hospitals and colleges/universities. High school graduation (or GED) is required for entry into a two-year or four-year program. For one-year programs, graduation from an accredited radiologic technology or health sciences program is usually necessary. Individuals also must earn certification involving written and practical examinations.
Educational Institutions
Virginia Colleges and Universities
Old Dominion University College of Health Sciences
Virginia Commonwealth University
Virginia Hospitals and Health Care Facilities
Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital
Professional Associations
- American Society of Radiologic Technologists, Inc.
15000 Central Ave., S.E.
Albuquerque, NM 87123-3917
1-800-444-2778
http://www.asrt.org - Society of Nuclear Medicine
1850 Samuel Morse Drive
Reston, VA 20190
(703) 708-9000
http://www.snm.org - Virginia Society of Radiologic Technologists
P.O. Box 547
Alexandria, VA 22313
1-800-929-8778
http://www.vsrt.org