Job Title: Nuclear Medicine Technologist (Nuclear Med Tech)Job Summary:
The Nuclear Medicine Technologist is responsible for performing diagnostic imaging procedures using radiopharmaceuticals and advanced imaging equipment, including gamma cameras and PET scanners. The technologist prepares and administers radiopharmaceuticals to patients, captures images, and assists in the interpretation of diagnostic results, all while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and high-quality imaging standards.
Key Responsibilities:
Patient Preparation and Care:
- Explain nuclear medicine procedures to patients, ensuring they understand the process and answer any questions or concerns.
- Verify patient identity and physician orders before performing any imaging procedure.
- Prepare patients for imaging by ensuring appropriate positioning, administration of radiopharmaceuticals, and monitoring vital signs if necessary.
- Monitor patients throughout the imaging process, ensuring they remain comfortable and that no adverse reactions occur from the radiopharmaceuticals.
Radiopharmaceutical Handling and Administration:
- Prepare and administer radiopharmaceuticals (radioactive tracers) to patients in accordance with prescribed doses and safety protocols.
- Ensure the proper handling, storage, and disposal of radiopharmaceuticals, in compliance with safety guidelines and regulations.
- Use appropriate techniques to minimize radiation exposure to patients, staff, and self.
Imaging and Equipment Operation:
- Operate and maintain specialized nuclear medicine imaging equipment, such as gamma cameras, SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography), and PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scanners.
- Capture high-quality images of organs, tissues, and bones by following established scanning protocols and adjusting imaging settings as needed.
- Assist in advanced imaging procedures, including hybrid imaging (e.g., PET/CT), to provide detailed images for more accurate diagnoses.
Image Review and Documentation:
- Review images for quality and accuracy before sending them to the physician or radiologist.
- Ensure the images are correctly documented and stored in the hospital's Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) or Electronic Health Record (EHR).
- Report any issues with image quality or technical difficulties to the appropriate staff, including radiologists and medical physicists.
Patient Safety and Radiation Safety:
- Adhere to all radiation safety protocols to minimize exposure to patients, staff, and self.
- Follow strict guidelines for handling radioactive materials and ensure appropriate disposal methods are used.
- Educate patients about radiation safety and precautions after the procedure, especially if the radiopharmaceuticals have long-lasting effects.
Collaboration and Communication:
- Work closely with physicians, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals to determine the appropriate imaging protocols and interpret findings.
- Communicate effectively with patients to explain the imaging process and alleviate anxiety, particularly for those unfamiliar with nuclear medicine.
- Document procedures, patient information, and imaging results accurately in the EHR system.
Compliance and Quality Assurance:
- Maintain compliance with state and federal regulations related to radiation safety and the handling of radioactive materials.
- Participate in quality control (QC) checks, ensuring imaging equipment is properly calibrated and functioning.
- Ensure that all equipment meets the technical standards required for quality imaging and patient safety.
- Keep up-to-date with nuclear medicine advancements, new imaging techniques, and industry standards.
Professional Development:
- Attend continuing education sessions, seminars, and workshops to stay current with the latest nuclear medicine technologies and best practices.
- Maintain professional certifications and licensure, meeting the requirements of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB).