Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Summary
Nuclear medicine technologists use radioactive materials to diagnose physiological changes and treat diseases.
Duties & Tasks
Nuclear medicine technologists may perform the following tasks:
- maintain and operate equipment such as gamma cameras and computing systems, to acquire images and process and analyse patient data
- prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals as tracers to demonstrate the function of organs in the body
- explain procedures to patients and enquire about previous diagnostic studies and medication, making sure they receive the correct preparation for the procedure
- check the patient's medical status and make sure that the patient's comfort, privacy and safety needs during the procedure are met
- give findings of procedures to medical practitioners
- provide treatment for cancer patients
- perform laboratory procedures including blood and specimen collection and quality control testing
- make sure that there is safe handling, storage and disposal of radioactive materials
- perform routine quality control and testing procedures of instrumentation, radiopharmaceuticals, data, images and computing systems
- initiate and participate in research programs and in the development of new techniques
- supervise students.
Working Conditions
Nuclear medicine technologists work as part of a team with other health professionals and medical staff.
Personal Requirements
- interest and aptitude in science
- able to work accurately
- responsible and patient nature
- sympathetic and understanding approach
- able to work independently or as part of a team.
