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Nuclear Medicine Technology (NMT) - Job Profile & Responsibilities
of a Nuclear Medicine Technologist
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What Is Nuclear Medicine
Technology?
Nuclear medicine technology involves the use of radioactive
materials, called radiopharmaceuticals, to create images of organs, study
body functions, analyze biological specimens and treat disease. Nuclear
medicine technologists (NMTs) apply the art and skill of diagnostic
imaging and therapeutics through the safe and effective use of
radionuclides.
Nuclear medicine
combines chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer technology, and
medicine in using radioactivity to diagnose and treat disease.
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Though there are many
diagnostic techniques currently available, nuclear medicine uniquely
provides information about both the structure and function of virtually
every major organ system within the body. It is this ability to
characterize and quantify physiologic function which separates nuclear
medicine from other imaging modalities, such as x-ray. Nuclear medicine
procedures are safe; they involve little or no patient discomfort and do
not require the use of anesthesia.
Who Is A Nuclear Medicine
Technologist?
The Nuclear Medicine Technologist is a highly specialized
healthcare professional who works closely with the nuclear medicine
physician. The technologist’s
primary responsibilities are to:
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• Prepares and
administers radiopharmaceuticals
• Images different organs and bodily structures
• Uses sophisticated computers to process data and enhance images
• Analyzes biological specimens in the laboratory
• Works closely with doctors, patients and other members of the health
care team. |
For organ-imaging
procedures, radiopharmaceuticals are administered to patients intravenously,
orally or by inhalation. The radioactive material concentrates in
a specific organ or organ system.
Instruments called scintillation cameras can detect the
radiation emitted by the radiopharmaceutical concentrated in the
organ. The camera produces a computer image of the organ. The images
allow medical professionals to study the structure and measure the
function of the organ, and to identify tumors, areas of infection
or other disorders. The radiation dose is small, and the patient
experiences little or no discomfort during the procedure.
Technologists use cameras
that detect radioactive drugs as they move through patients' bodies. To
track the movement of drugs, technologists arrange patients and the
equipment in the proper position. Then they start the camera, also known
as a scanner. The scanner monitors the
path of the radioactive drug in the body. This path appears as images on a
computer screen or on film. Technologists print out the pictures for
doctors to interpret. In addition, they monitor patients during procedures
and enter test results into patients' records.
The procedure for giving
radiation treatments is similar. Technologists position patients and
equipment properly. Then they program computers so that patients receive
the correct amount of radiation. After the tests or treatments are given,
technologists record the results.
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In addition,
technologists maintain and adjust laboratory equipment. Following
safety procedures, they dispose of and store radioactive materials. They
keep track of the amount and type of radiation disposed of and used. They
may also purchase materials.
Nuclear Medicine
Technology - A Career Option
If you have an interest in the health sciences and computer
technology and are looking for a people-oriented career, consider
nuclear medicine technology. You
can join in post graduate diplomas, 4 year degrees or in M.Sc
programs. NMTs are employed in hospitals, universities, medical
clinics and research centers.
Contributing Writer
: Jayakumar. A Lecturer, Faculty of Allied
Health Sciences, Directorate of Distance Education, Sikkim Manipal
University, Manipal-576104
jayakumar.a@manipalu.com
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