Technologist, Nuclear Medicine

GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

This position reports to the Unit Technical Manager/Operations Manager. Performs research MRI/molecular imaging to include brain, cardiac, and total body studies along with the computer interactions associated with these studies

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Per aseptic technique guidelines, prepares radiopharmaceuticals from commercially available kits and/or recipes for use in patient studies. Prepares stock solutions of radiopharmaceuticals. Assures quality control of radiopharmaceuticals, including calibration, chemicals purity checks, radionuclide purity checks, percent yield and instant thin layer chromotography to guarantee integrity of solutions and to avoid unnecessary radiation exposure.

Determines radiopharmaceutical to be utilized based upon established guidelines, consulting with PIs when necessary. Calculates patient dosage.

Explains procedure, reassuring subject and securing his/her full cooperation during testing.

Administers radiopharmaceuticals to subject and completes testing to include brain, cardiac, and total body studies

Performs intra-venous peripheral catheter insertion as authorized by the PI.

Acquires/processes/reconstructs images when appropriate. Labels subject images according to HIPPA and with such data as radiopharmaceutical amount, time of the injection, equipment utilized, and additional subject study related information etc., in accordance with ACR requirements. Archives patient data to PACS for long term storage. Retrieves appropriate subject studies for review and comparison with previous studies.

Observes radiation safety techniques, including use of protective shielding and handling and disposal of radiopharmaceuticals. Takes appropriate precautions to minimize exposure to infectious, radioactive or biohazard agents.

Ensures that correct protocol, radiation dose, and contrast are administered to subject for MRI scanning, when ordered as such.

Lifts, moves, transports and positions subjects for research studies.

Follows Institutional/ Departmental guidelines for patient safety and patient care.

Elutes radionuclide generator systems, maintaining sterile technique.

Interfaces with appropriate computer systems related to duties of the position.

Alerts Unit Technical/Operations Manager regarding equipment problems, problems encountered during testing, etc.

Assists in on-the-job training of RAs as assigned.

Follows area policies/guidelines in order to perform imaging studies of superior technical quality.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

Calculation of statistical data

Computer analysis of image data

Imaging systems including MRI and MRI/PET systems; radiation monitoring equipment; PET tracer infusion systems; contrast power injectors

Excellent, effective communication and organizational skills.

Must be able to lift/carry up to 50lbs, be able to lift, position, push or transfer subjects, have manual dexterity and mobility, be able to see clearly at 20 feet or more, be able to see clearly at 20 inches or less, be able to judge distance and space relationships, be able to see peripherally, and be able to distinguish and identify different colors.

Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the subjects served (all age groups) on assigned unit.

Ability to foster and promote a positive image and a professional appearance.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS:

Required:

• License: Radiologic Technologist (Nuclear Medicine) in the state of Massachusetts
• Certification: ARRT or NMTCB / Preferred: NMRI

EDUCATION:

• Required: High school diploma
• Preferred: Bachelor's Degree

Field of Study/Additional Specialized Training: BS degree in NM Technology preferred or BS in unrelated field with a certificate in NM Technology preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

Preferred: 1-2 years experience

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the subjects served (all age groups) on assigned unit. Must be able to work in a team environment. Ability to foster and promote a positive image and a professional appearance