NUCLEAR MEDICINE TECHNOLOGISTS(TECHNICAL OCCUPATIONS IN MEDICINE) California Occupational Guide Number 2002-E (part) Interest Area: Emerging Occupations 1995
THE JOB 
Nuclear Medicine Technologists perform tasks in the areas of diagnosis and treatment. The Technologists gather the patient's medical information to better understand the illness and to know which diagnostic procedures to use for therapy. The Technologists talk to the patient about procedures and safety precautions required. They then prepare radiopharmeceuticals, take blood samples, and perform radioimmunoassay procedures. Under the supervision of a Nuclear Medical Physician, the Technologists perform in-vivo and in-vitro tests. These tests include administering the radio pharmaceuticals orally or intravenously to the patient and using radiation detection instruments and equipment as required to obtain clinical information.
COMPENSATION
The average annual salary for Nuclear Medicine Technologists in 1993 was $44,000 for those working in selected western states. In 1995, for Los Angeles County the annual average salary is $43,000.
REQUIREMENTS
Skills
-- Gather, interpret, and report data using scientific language and symbols
-- Follow technical instructions
-- Base decisions on measurable, verifiable information
-- Work precisely and accurately
-- Operate sensitive equipment
Training Requirements
-- Completion of: Basic Nuclear Medicine Technology program, Laboratory
Instruction, and Clinical Experience (Internship)
-- Bachelor of Science Degree in Physical or Biological Science or related
field
-- Pass Certification Exam given by the Department of Health Services
Radiologic Health Branch
OCCUPATIONAL CODES
DOT (Dictionary of Occupational Titles, 4th Ed., Rev. 1): 078.361-018 OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) System: 329140
Source: State of California, Employment Development Department,
Labor Market Information Division, Information Services Group,
(916) 262-2162
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