 |
To
be a successful Nuclear Medicine Technologist you should:
- Have a keen interest in the health sciences and computer
technology.
- Enjoy a people-oriented career.
|
| What
type of education and/or training do I need?
Nuclear medicine technologists receive their education
through academic programs at hospitals, community colleges,
and colleges and universities. Programs range in length
from one to four years and lead to a certificate, associate
degree, or bachelor's degree.
One-year certificate programs are for registered radiological
technologists and ultrasound technologists who wish to
specialize in nuclear medicine. Others interested in the
nuclear medicine technology field have three options:
a 2-year certificate program, a 2-year associate program,
or a 4-year bachelor's program. |
| Do
I need a license or certification for this career?
Licensure is required in the State of Connecticut. |
| Where
can I get more information? Society of
Nuclear Medicine
Technologist Section
1850 Samuel Morse Drive
Reston, VA 20190
(703) 708-9000
www.snm.org
American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
1255 Northland Drive
St. Paul, MN 55120
(651) 687-0048
www.arrt.org |
| What
is the salary for this career? $47,840-$68,640
(Source: 2003 Connecticut Hospital Association
Compensation Survey) |
|
| What
will my job be like? The nuclear medicine
technologist is a highly specialized health care professional
who works closely with the radiologist. Nuclear medicine
technology uses radiopharmeceuticals to "see"
organ images (i.e., heart, lungs, liver, kidneys), body
functions, and assist in the diagnosis and treatment of
diseases. Skilled in patient care, nuclear medicine technologists
instruct patients before medical procedures. Under the
direction of a physician, they calculate dosages and administer
appropriate radioactive drugs. Technologists also must
document the use and disposal of radioactive materials.
|
| Where
could I work? Nuclear medicine technologists
are usually employed in hospitals, clinics, and outpatient
imaging centers, and generally work a 40-hour week. This
may include evening or weekend hours in departments that
operate on an extended schedule. Opportunities for part-time
and shift work are also available.
Other workplace settings:
- Physician Offices
- Research Facilities
|
| What
is the future of this career? Employment of
nuclear medicine technologists is expected to grow about
as fast as the average through the year 2008. |
Where
can I get the education and/or training?
- Gateway Community College School of Nuclear Medicine
Technology, New Haven
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