Overview

Nuclear Medicine is a diagnostic imaging specialty that involves the medical use of radioactive materials, or radioisotopes, in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

It is the primary responsibility of the Nuclear Medicine Technologist to prepare and administer radioisotopes (radiopharmaceuticals) to patients, track the progress of radioisotopes within the body, and properly produce diagnostic images through the use of a computerized gamma camera (or scanner). The technologist will also be responsible for the monitoring of patients during imaging procedures, calculating and recording radiopharmaceutical dosages, maintaining proper documentation, preparation of stock radioisotopes, and quality control of the nuclear medicine equipment.

As Nuclear Medicine involves the use of low level radioactive materials, the Nuclear Medicine Technologist will have a thorough working knowledge of prescribed radiation safety procedures and will be capable of handling and administering radiopharmaceuticals in a safe manner. In most cases technologists will usually work under the supervision of a physician and/or chief technologist.

Nuclear Medicine Training

Nuclear Medicine training is available in either a 2 year community college based program leading to an associates degree or a 4 year college program leading to a bachelors degree. Some employers may give preference to graduates of 4 year programs. Nuclear Medicine training programs are accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology (JRCNMT).

Most states (and many employers) require certification and/or licensure after successful completion of nuclear medicine training. Certification is available through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board. Individual states will generally have their own licensure requirements, with many also requiring evidence of continuing education.

Nuclear Medicine Jobs

Nuclear Medicine jobs are primarily found in hospitals and private imaging centers, with a smaller number found in private cardiology offices. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics the job outlook for Nuclear Medicine Technologists is expected to grow through the year 2014 due to aging population needs and the increased use of newer nuclear imaging technologies such as PET (positive emmission tomography) and SPECT imaging.

It is anticipated that the employment of nuclear medicine technologists is expected to increase by 15 percent from 2006 to 2016. While hospitals will remain as the primary employer of nuclear medicine technologists, the shift toward outpatient care will also result in a rise in nuclear medicine job opportunities in independent radiology practices and private cardiology centers.

Related Reference Materials

Nuclear Medicine Technology: Review Questions for the Board Examinations