Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Job Summary The Nuclear Medicine Technologist is responsible for administering radiopharmaceuticals to patients to detect diseases or provide therapeutic results under the direction of a physician, ensuring viable images are obtained. The person in this position responds to patient questions and concerns regarding exam procedures and process, while maintaining appropriate confidentiality regarding personal health information, including but not limited to, patient diagnosis, health history, demographics, and referral information. This person is responsible for all paperwork associated with technical procedures and responds to physician questions and needs regarding patient procedures. Some technologists may work under the direct medical supervision of a physician during certain procedures. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Performs high quality nuclear medicine and/or positron emission tomography/computed tomography images on patients while providing excellent care. Assures proper dose of radionuclides are ordered for each patient. Checks dose labels to ensure the radionuclide is correct for each patient procedure. Examines doses and adjusts accordingly to ensure each dose matches the recommended amount. Obtains blood sugar levels as needed. Starts intravenous lines or performs straight stick venipuncture for isotope injection. Administers radionuclide in a safe and effective manner. Explains test procedures and safety precautions to patients, guiding them through a sometimes difficult process by gently talking them through the steps and answering their questions and concerns regarding exam procedures and process. Monitors patients' well- being during exams; recognizes patient discomfort or medical problems and takes appropriate action. Follows established nuclear medicine protocols and procedures. Performs and documents surveys and wipe tests of incoming and outgoing radioactive shipments in accordance with departmental policies. Troubleshoots basic problems that may occur with imaging and processing equipment. Maintains a nuclear medicine information system for all patient dosing, calibration, receiving and disposition, and all regulatory reports required by the RAM license. Makes suggestions to improve work methods. Trains new nuclear medicine employees as directed. Treats patients and customers including family members or care providers that may accompany the patient with courtesy, professionalism, and respect. Under the direction of the radiologist, administers radiopharmaceuticals to detect or treat diseases using radioisotopes. Produces a computer-generated or film image for interpretation by the radiologist. Disposes of and stores radioactive materials following radiation safety procedures. Uses ALARA concept to minimize patient radiation doses. Documents and reports any over-exposures and advises management immediately. Checks patient history, and obtains signed ABN or waiver, if necessary. Consults with radiologist when necessary to determine appropriate scanning procedure. Completes all paperwork and exam report associated with technical procedures. Responds to physician questions and needs regarding patient procedures. Checks referral for appropriate exam based on patient history. Keeps Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT exam rooms and dressing booths clean and properly stocked with supplies. Assures room is ready prior to the patient entering the room (i.e. equipment is operable, all supplies are readily available, and has been appropriately cleaned and prepped). Handles delicate situations (tumors, cancerous pathology, etc.) in a supportive and empathetic manner ("good bedside manners") while maintaining appropriate confidentiality regarding exam outcomes or potential issues. Keeps patient schedule and accommodates add-on patients when requested. Communicates delays or changes in the schedule to the appropriate person(s). Exercises sound judgment regarding image quality; seeks guidance from radiologist if concerned about what scan reveals and obtains prior approval before doing additional scans/views in order to better diagnose the patient's possible pathology. Releases patient with proper follow-up information. Monitors Patient Library and print films as needed. Conducts daily, monthly, and quarterly QC testing. Follows STAT protocol and procedure when necessary. Participates in projects and/or meetings, and completes other tasks as assigned by management. PLEASE NOTE: This is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and requirements of the position described above. Other functions may be assigned and Management retains the right to add or change duties at any time.