What does a Nuclear Medicine Technologist 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 Technologist make near United States?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$96,899
/ yrNuclear Medicine Technologist Career Path
Learn how to become a Nuclear Medicine Technologist, 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 Technologist Insights
Ascension Seton“good luck getting the specially outsourced contraception insurance since Ascension is catholic.”
HII“The pay is great and what I do provides a lot of overtime.”
University of Tennessee Medical Center“There are many good people and I enjoy working at an academic center.”
Piedmont Healthcare“Great People and education physicians that will teach you along the way.”
Covenant Medical Group“Short staffing and no bonuses.”
Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute“Not the best management of”
King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust“Limited posts for career progression in this field”
Lifespan“Good pay for technologist”
Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Nuclear Medicine Technologist
- Physician Assistant
- CT Technologist
- MRI Technologist
- Radiologic Technologist