Nuclear medicine technologist is those who have knowledge and hands on experience in administering radioactive substances in the body to detect disorders in the body. The technician also adds radioactive substances to blood or serum to determine the hormone levels. Most of the nuclear studies are processed with a computer or specialized equipment. The job of a nuclear medicine technician is strenuous. A nuclear technologist must have good physical stamina as he spends most of the day standing. He works for about 40 hours per week including weekend and evening hours. Opportunities to work in part-time and shift work are available in most of the hospitals. The technologist works on on-call duty in a rotational basis.
Nuclear medicine technologist is exposed to radiation most of the time so they use shielded syringes, gloves and other protective devices to protect them from the radiation. The amount of nuclear radiation received is comparable to that received during a diagnostic x-ray procedure. Technicians wear badges to measure the radiation levels. They check the levels of the radiation constantly so that they do not exceed the normal range that affects both the technician and the patient. To practice as a nuclear medicine technologist, one has to be certified or licensed by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologist. The technicians must meet the minimum criteria set by the Federal Standards to become a licensed practitioner.
The expectation of the Federal Standards is that the technician should be proficient in the administration of radioactive drugs and the operation of radiation. Generally the duration of nuclear technology programs ranges from 1 to 4 years based on the course. Certificate courses are offered in hospitals; these are for people who have already completed a study in imaging technologies and want to specialize in nuclear technology. Associate degree is offered in community colleges, these are for people who are interested to set a career in nuclear technology. Bachelor’s degree is for those who want to make nuclear medicine as their lifetime career.
