As the population known as “Baby Boomers” reach middle age, the need for Nuclear Medicine Technology is drastically rising. People are relying on Nuclear Medicine to get accurate medical diagnoses. Nuclear Medicine Technologists are the experts at local hospitals and medical offices who run x-rays, MRIs, and similar equipment. Due to their specialized skills, Nuclear Medicine Technologists are one of a kind.
Many people are familiar with X-Ray machines. Also called radiography, a small amount of radiation is used to capture images of the body’s insides. Images are then transferred to film or a computer image. Nuclear Medicine Technologists run the radiography equipment and use their skills to capture clear images of the affected area.
MRI equipment (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) provides a similar function, but large magnets and sound waves create the images. Special medicines, called radiopharmaceuticals, are given to the patient. A Nuclear Medicine Technologist must use special precautions to ensure the levels of radiation are kept to safe doses. Those employed in Nuclear Medicine Technology must keep accurate records of the pharmaceuticals that are used and the dosages given.
Nuclear Medicine Technology covers many machines from ultrasound/sonograms to handling radioimmunoassay studies. Ultrasounds or sonograms are the machines used frequently during a woman’s pregnancy. Sound waves are sent into the body and the waves bounce off the growing fetus providing clear images of the fetus’s development.
Radioimmunoassay studies are more complex. The patient is given a radioactive cocktail to ingest. The dosages are precisely measured to ensure the patient’s safety. The action of the radioactivity is then closely measured to tell a doctor more about hormonal fluctuations, blood movement throughout the body, and other similar issues.
A person in the Nuclear Medicine Technology field can expect to work forty-hour workweeks, but the shifts can vary. Because hospitals never close, a Nuclear Medicine Technologist can work first, second, or third shift. Coverage for other workers during illness and vacations are often necessary.
Nuclear Medicine Technologists must contain a good deal of upper-body strength. Many times, a disabled or weak patient must be maneuvered into the correct position. In addition, Nuclear Medicine Technologists work eight-hour shifts on their feet. Rarely does a person employed in Nuclear Medicine Technology sit around for hours. Comfortable shoes are important, but being able to work standing for long hours is crucial.
Finally, a Nuclear Medicine Technologist must be extremely familiar with the handling and disposal of radioactive materials. The technologist’s safety depends on the ability to memorize and retain all the latest safety precautions.
