What does a Nuclear Medicine Tech do?
A nuclear medicine technologist uses a scanner to create images of various areas of a patient's body. They prepare radioactive drugs and administer them to patients undergoing scans which cause abnormal areas of the body to appear different from normal areas in the images. Additionally, nuclear medicine technologists are responsible for explaining imaging procedures to patients and answering any questions. Nuclear medicine technologists generally work in hospitals and diagnostic centers.
A bachelor's degree in nuclear medicine technologist along with a certification depending on the state requirements. Successful nuclear medicine technologists possess strong interpersonal skills and are able to think critically.
- Perform organ imaging tests including full skeletal, cardiac blood pool, and major vascular blood pool tests
- Consistently perform complex examinations and procedures, including injecting radiopharmaceuticals under the direct supervision of a radiologist
- Monitor the patient to check for unusual reactions to the drugs
- Operate equipment that creates images of areas in the body, such as images of organs
- Examine machines to ensure that they are working properly
- Keep detailed records of procedures
- Explain test procedures and safety precautions to patients and provide them with assistance during procedures
- Attain required approval and signature by nuclear medicine physicians
- Nuclear medical technological certification depending on state requirements
- Prioritize work assignments and adjust tasks as needed
- Ability to maintain confidential patient information
- Establish and maintain effective relationships with customers and patients and gain their trust and respect
- Demonstrates flexibility to meet department needs as they vary
- Ability to work with minimum supervision within the guidelines set up by the department
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Able to communicate effectively in a caring and courteous manner
- Excellent analytical skills
How much does a Nuclear Medicine Tech make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$102,662
/ yrNuclear Medicine Tech Career Path
Learn how to become a Nuclear Medicine Tech, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Nuclear Medicine Tech Insights
Ascension Seton“good luck getting the specially outsourced contraception insurance since Ascension is catholic.”
University of Tennessee Medical Center“There are many good people and I enjoy working at an academic center.”
HII“The pay is great and what I do provides a lot of overtime.”
Covenant Medical Group“Short staffing and no bonuses.”
AMITA Health“It is a nice place to work”
Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute“Not the best management of”
Lifespan“Good pay for technologist”
US Department of Veterans Affairs“advertised salary may not be what you will recieve.”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Nuclear Medicine Tech
- Physician Assistant
- CT Technologist
- MRI Technologist
- Radiologic Technologist