What are the responsibilities and job description for the Nuclear Medical Techno I position at Lake Granbury Medical Center?
Job Summary
The Nuclear Medicine Technologist I is responsible for performing diagnostic and therapeutic nuclear medicine procedures under the supervision of a physician. This role includes preparing and administering radiopharmaceuticals, operating imaging equipment, ensuring radiation safety, and maintaining accurate records in compliance with regulatory standards. The Nuclear Medicine Technologist I collaborates with Radiologists, Cardiologists, and other healthcare professionals to provide accurate diagnostic imaging and high-quality patient care.
Essential Functions
- Performs nuclear medicine imaging procedures and therapies, following established protocols and physician orders to ensure high-quality diagnostic images.
- Prepares and administers radiopharmaceuticals intravenously or orally, adhering to safety protocols, regulatory guidelines, and facility policies.
- Assesses patient condition before procedures, verifying proper identification, screening for contraindications, and ensuring the appropriateness of the exam.
- Operates and calibrates nuclear medicine imaging equipment, including gamma cameras and PET scanners, ensuring optimal image acquisition and quality control.
- Performs routine quality control (QC) checks on imaging equipment and maintains accurate documentation for Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) or state regulatory compliance.
- Ensures proper handling, storage, and disposal of radioactive materials, following all radiation safety protocols and regulatory requirements.
- Demonstrates knowledge of disease abnormalities and physiological processes, recognizing when additional imaging views or modifications are needed to enhance diagnostic accuracy.
- Responds to and reports isotope spills, ensuring compliance with radiation safety officer (RSO) protocols and regulatory reporting guidelines.
- Provides clear instructions to patients and family members, explaining the procedure, potential side effects, and post-procedure care as needed.
- Documents all procedures, radiopharmaceutical usage, and patient interactions in the electronic medical record (EMR), ensuring accuracy and compliance with facility policies.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- Complies with all policies and standards.
Qualifications
- 0-2 years of experience performing nuclear medicine procedures in a clinical or hospital setting required
- 2-4 years of experience as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist in an acute care hospital setting preferred
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Proficiency in nuclear medicine imaging techniques, radiopharmaceutical preparation, and radiation safety procedures.
- Strong knowledge of NRC, state, and federal regulations for nuclear medicine and radiation protection.
- Ability to recognize abnormal scan results and identify technical errors to improve imaging accuracy.
- Effective communication and patient care skills, ensuring comfort and understanding throughout procedures.
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills, particularly in equipment calibration and image optimization.
- Attention to detail in record-keeping, documentation, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with radiologists, cardiologists, and other healthcare providers.
Licenses and Certifications
- Licensed Radiologic Technologist as applicable by state required
- (N) ARDMS or ARRT - Nuclear Med Tech required or
- NMTCB - Nuclear Medicine Tech required
- BCLS - Basic Life Support required