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::: What is Nuclear Medicine? :::
Nuclear medicine is radiology subspecialty that utilizes radioactive materials to survey the body in order to diagnose, as well as to treat certain diseases. Unlike other medical imaging specialties, nuclear medicine focuses on evaluating organ function (physiology) more than actual structure (anatomy).
Nuclear medicine may be used to look at every major organ system within the body, by using specifically targeted radioactive materials (“tracers”) that are administered to patients intravenously, orally or by inhalation. Once the radioactive tracers attach to the targeted area, the radioactive material produces gamma rays that are detected by radiation sensitive cameras and computers. The computers form images of the body system or organ being studied and provide information about the structure and function of the various organs which can lead to diagnosis and treatment of abnormalities.
::: Common Uses :::
Nuclear medicine is commonly used in studying bone disease and cardiac function. It is also used to diagnose cancer and evaluate the progression of the disease over time. It is also used to evaluate the success of cancer treatments.
::: Primary Functions :::
- Preparing and administering radioactive drugs (“tracers”) to patients;
- Operating a computer to process accurate and readable images;
- Analyzing specimens;
- Maintaining control of radioactive inventory, safely disposing of radioactive waste, and regulating the amount of radiation exposure to patients;
- Providing images, data and patient information to the radiologist, and;
- Interacting with patients and doctors.
::: Recipe for Success :::
Nuclear medicine requires that a person be meticulous and detail oriented. A good Nuclear Medicine Technologist is someone who is interested in science and technology (including computer and biological sciences), and able to do well academically in these areas. A Nuclear Medicine Technologist must have sound judgment in analyzing and prioritizing technical, scheduling, and patient care issues. They must utilize good communication skills to accurately convey information to patients, physicians and other healthcare personnel.
Other skills that are necessary in this profession are the ability to change and adapt to new techniques and procedures. Nuclear medicine is expanding and new advances occur rapidly.
::: Subspecialties :::
- Nuclear Cardiology
- Positron Emission Technology (PET)
::: Work Environment :::
Most Nuclear Medicine Technologists work a 40 hour work week, though part-time positions and flexible schedules may be available with various employers. It is not uncommon for Nuclear Medicine Technologists to work evening, weekend or on-call hours. Nuclear Medicine Technologists must be able to be on their feet for long periods of time, lift and turn patients, and assist them on and off the examining table.
Nuclear Medicine Technologists are exposed to potential radiation hazards, although they are very well trained to minimize exposure by utilizing “time, distance and shielding”. Speed, efficiency and distance from patients can reduce techs’ exposure. Lead aprons are not usually utilized in Nuclear Medicine procedures.
As in many health care settings, the work environment is fast-paced and one in which the technologist may see many patients in one day or one shift. Nuclear Medicine Technologists work in hospitals, imaging departments, clinics and private medical offices. Experienced Nuclear Medicine Technologists may also branch out into other areas such as administration, teaching and equipment sales and marketing.
::: Earning Potential :::
The median full-time salary for Nuclear Medicine Technologist in the New England region is approximately $65,000 per year plus excellent benefits. The median salary nationally for Nuclear Medicine Technologists is $52,000.
::: Basic Educational Requirements :::
- High school diploma or GED (it is useful to have a concentration in mathematics, physics, chemistry and biology.)
- Special education, training and licensure are required to work in the field of Nuclear Medicine in Massachusetts. Currently, nuclear medicine requires a 3-5 year Bachelor of Science degree. But, a practicing Radiologic Technologist can complete a 1- 2 year program and pass a competency exam to become licensed in Nuclear Medicine under the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists or the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board.
There are four board approved programs in Massachusetts:
School of Nuclear Medicine Technology (Department of Radiology)
University of Massachusetts Memorial Health Care.
15 month/ post RT or post Bachelor’s of Science prerequisite.
School of Nuclear Medicine Technology (Department of Biology)
Salem State College.
4-5 year BS degree (Biology with a Nuclear Medicine specialty).
School of Nuclear Medicine Technology
Springfield Technical College.
2 yr Associates of Science degree in Nuclear Medicine.
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Sciences.
3 yr BS degree in Nuclear Medicine.
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