Nuclear Medicine Technician

Job Description

Job DescriptionDescription:

The Nuclear Medicine Technician supports the diagnostic imaging process by preparing and administering radiopharmaceuticals, positioning patients, and operating nuclear medicine equipment under the supervision of a physician. This role ensures safe imaging practices, accurate documentation, and compassionate patient care.

1. Patient Care & Preparation

• Verify physician orders and assist in confirming appropriate radiopharmaceutical selection.
  
• Educate patients on procedures, expected sensations, and safety guidelines.
  
• Screen patients for contraindications (e.g., allergies, pregnancy, recent nuclear procedures).
  
• Assist with obtaining informed consent when applicable.
  

2. Radiopharmaceutical Handling

• Receive, log, and store radiopharmaceuticals following regulatory standards.
  
• Measure and prepare doses using dose calibrators.
  
• Adhere to radiation safety procedures and wear dosimetry devices at all times.
  

3. Imaging Procedures

• Position patients for high-quality imaging while maintaining comfort and safety.
  
• Operate imaging systems such as gamma cameras, PET/CT, or SPECT under established protocols.
  
• Monitor patients during procedures and report any complications promptly.
  
• Assist with specialized studies including bone, cardiac, thyroid, or PET scans.
  

4. Quality Control & Equipment Maintenance

• Perform routine quality control checks on equipment.
  
• Maintain calibration logs and report malfunctions to the appropriate staff.
  
• Assist in coordinating service or repairs as needed.
  

5. Documentation & Record Keeping

• Record patient data, administered doses, scan parameters, and procedure details accurately.
  
• Follow all state and federal regulations for nuclear medicine recordkeeping.
  
• Provide documentation support for billing and coding processes.
  

6. Safety & Compliance

• Practice ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles to minimize radiation exposure.
  
• Safely handle and dispose of radioactive waste.
  
• Participate in ongoing radiation safety training and compliance audits.
  

7. Cross-Functional Support

• Assist with obtaining prior authorizations for procedures.
  
• Collaborate with technologists, physicians, nurses, and staff to ensure smooth workflow.

Requirements:

• Completion of an accredited Nuclear Medicine Technology or Nuclear Medicine Technician program.
  
• Certification by NMTCB or ARRT (Nuclear Medicine) preferred (or eligibility to obtain).
  
• State license.
  
• BLS certification required.
  
• Strong technical, organizational, and patient care skills.
  

Preferred Experience:

• Prior experience in nuclear medicine or imaging.
  
• Familiarity with PET/CT or SPECT/CT systems.