Nuclear Medicine Technologists

Radioisotope equipment is used for the preparation, administration, and measurement of radioactive isotopes in therapeutic, diagnostic, and tracer research.

Career Snapshot

ABOUT NUCLEAR MEDICINE TECHNOLOGIST CAREERS

Nuclear medicine technologists' job centres around microscopic particles of matter known as radionuclides. They are converted into compounds that the technician or doctor administers to the patient orally or via injection. The technologist then uses technology to track these particles throughout the body. The image produced can be utilised to diagnose the patient's condition and to guide treatment. 

Nuclear medicine technologists must follow tight safety protocols since they work with radioactive materials, including wearing a device that detects inappropriate radiation exposure. They must also explain test methods to patients and have excellent oral communication abilities. 

This occupation requires training and certification, which can be obtained in a hospital, community college, or university. The programmes range in length from two to four years. For health professionals who want to specialise in nuclear medicine, such as radiologic technologists, one-year certificate programmes are often provided. 

These technologists frequently seek extra training in order to conduct other types of imaging operations. In all cases, they must blend humanity and technology to make the patient feel at ease.

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Characteristics

Comfort of the work setting
Physical demands
Exposure to job hazards
Exposure to extreme environmental conditions
Work closely with team members, clients etc.
Communication with others
Competition for this position
Job challenge and pressure to meet deadlines
Level of responsibilities
Critical decision making
Leadership
Dealing and handling conflicts

Activities

Assisting and Caring for Others Know More
Documenting/Recording Information Know More
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships Know More
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards Know More
Getting Information Know More
Interacting With Computers Know More
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public Know More
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Know More

Areas of Study

Biology Know More
Chemistry Know More
Computers and Electronics Know More
Customer and Personal Service Know More
English Language Know More
Mathematics Know More
Medicine and Dentistry Know More
Physics Know More

Degrees

Colleges

Top Skills

Active Listening Know More
Critical Thinking Know More
Judgment and Decision Making Know More
Monitoring Know More
Reading Comprehension Know More
Social Perceptiveness Know More
Speaking Know More
Writing Know More