Nuclear Medicine Technologists
Nuclear medicine technologists prepare, administer, and measure radioactive isotopes in therapeutic, diagnostic, and tracer studies using a variety of radioisotope equipment. They prepare stock solutions of radioactive materials and calculate doses to be administered by radiologists and subject patients to radiation. They also execute blood volume, red cell survival, and fat absorption studies following standard laboratory techniques.
Nuclear medicine technologists inject small amounts of radioactive material into patients and take images of the patients' bodies to diagnose or determine the progression of some diseases or illnesses, like cancer, neurological disorders, heart disease, and endocrine and gastrointestinal conditions amongst others.
Nuclear medicine technologists' job in India is to operate computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners that are used in conjunction with nuclear medicine procedures.
Nuclear medicine technologist's salary in India is commensurate with the nature of the job and experience. They use radiation to gain information about the functioning of the human body’s organs, diagnose disease and apply appropriate therapy treatments to make a reasonably accurate diagnosis of the patient’s disease state. This highly specialized health care speciality is a combination of imaging, patient care, chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer technology, and medicine.
Nuclear medicine technologists obtain the patient’s pertinent history, talk to the patient about the procedure, and monitor the patient’s physical condition during the procedure. They process data and enhance digital images using advanced computer technology and provide images, data analysis and patient information for diagnostic interpretation or therapeutic procedures.
Nuclear medicine technologists undertake a post-baccalaureate one-year certificate program, or a two-year associate degree to be eligible for this job.
To succeed, nuclear medicine technologists must be able to use technology with analytical skills and detail orientation.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- M.Sc. Nuclear Medicine Technology
- PG Diploma Nuclear Medicine Technology
- B.Sc. Nuclear Medicine Technology
Tasks
- Calculate, measure, and record radiation dosage or radiopharmaceuticals received, used, and disposed, using computer and following physician's prescription.
- Detect and map radiopharmaceuticals in patients' bodies, using a camera to produce photographic or computer images.
- Explain test procedures and safety precautions to patients and provide them with assistance during test procedures.
- Produce a computer-generated or film image for interpretation by a physician.
- Process cardiac function studies, using computer.
- Dispose of radioactive materials and store radiopharmaceuticals, following radiation safety procedures.
- Record and process results of procedures.
- Prepare stock radiopharmaceuticals, adhering to safety standards that minimize radiation exposure to workers and patients.
- Maintain and calibrate radioisotope and laboratory equipment.
- Gather information on patients' illnesses and medical history to guide the choice of diagnostic procedures for therapy.
Progression Routes
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