How to Find Nuclear Medical Technologist Jobs

<P>Nuclear medical technologist jobs are similar to other medical imaging jobs, but while they position you and perform the scan, they also prepare and administer radioactive drugs to the patients during the scan.  These radioactive substances show up differently in the areas with cancer or other abnormalities when scanned. Nuclear medical technology is an important tool used in the diagnosis and treatment of illness. The scans yield information about not only the structure, but also the function of the body systems.<BR>Since this imaging process is a bit different from others, the technologist may also need to explain what will happen during the scan to the patient.  An important part of this job is also monitoring how the patient is doing during the scan.  Helping a patient to remain calm during a test can be important to the clarity of the images. Checking for unusual reactions to the drugs can keep any problems to a minimum. </P> <P>With all that responsibility, how much training is required to get nuclear medical technologist jobs?  While the basic nuclear medicine technologist requirements are the same no matter where you live, some states require licensing, as well.  For the most part, completing an associates degree in nuclear medical technology is sufficient, but there are bachelor degree programs and these can be in a related health field such as nursing or radiologic technology.  Then, a certificate program, usually a twelve month course can be completed.  Certificate programs might be offered right in a hospital.  A clinical rotation is a part of the training, like in other medical careers.  This clinical experience is supervised by a certified medical technologist and a physician who specializes in nuclear medicine.</P> <P>As with other medical careers, there is opportunity for specialty certification, too.  These certificates show that there is proficiency in specific procedures or equipment.  An example of this would be PET scan certification.  A PET scan provides a three-dimensional image of the body. There are other certificates or specialized training like nuclear cardiology and even MRI, magnetic resonance imaging.</P> <P>Also, nuclear medicine technologist requirements include taking classes in anatomy, physiology and other math and science classes that make the dosage calculations and positioning techniques possible.  Being a detail-oriented person is a definite plus for this position.  In addition, compassion is a needed attribute because the patients may be under tremendous stress when coming to you for a scan.</P> <P>Continuing education plays a role in this career choice because the advances in medicine and in medical technology come quickly and it makes it necessary to keep up with the latest techniques and to learn the new technologies that you will need to perform your job.  </P> <P>Finally, nuclear medical technologist jobs are important to the diagnostic process in hospitals and in imaging clinics because the quality and accuracy of the scans present the doctor with the images that lead to diagnosis and treatment of illnesses.  With an associates degree as the educational requirement to enter the profession, the training is within reach for someone who enjoys science and math.  Growth in this profession is expected to be steady in the next decade, but not as explosive.  A nuclear medical technologist will continue to be a needed part of the treatment and diagnostic team.  The advances in technology can make the images sharp and can assist doctors by showing the tiniest details that can be critical to the treatment of many illnesses. This aspect of the medical field can prove to be exciting and with the continuing education requirements, it can provide constant challenges and opportunities to learn and grow in your career.</P>