| Nuclear Medicine Technologists
Nuclear medicine technologists carry out diagnostic imaging and some
treatment procedures in hospitals or private medical clinics. They
acquire images that help pinpoint the nature of a disease and how
it is affecting the body. Their work also enables doctors to monitor
a patient's response to treatment. Some of the main uses of nuclear
medicine include:
- Evaluating coronary disease
- Studying how the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys and other organs
are functioning
- Determining the location of tumours
- Monitoring the progression of cancer and the results of cancer
treatments
- Diagnosing hormonal disorders
 Nuclear medicine involves the use of radioactive drugs called tracers
that concentrate in specific organs when introduced into the patient's
bloodstream. Given in small amounts, usually by injection, the tracers
expose patients to a very low-level of radiation for only a short
time.
As the tracer emits radiation, a special detector called a gamma
camera collects data. A computer processes the data and produces
images of the organ from different angles. Cross-sectional images
can be obtained if required. The images generally appear on a computer
monitor, or as a photograph or computer printout.
As part of their professional duty, nuclear medicine technologists:
- EXPLAIN the procedure to patients.
- ANSWER questions as fully as possible.
- CONTRIBUTE to patient education.
- PREPARE the tracer prescribed by the physician.
- ENSURE proper radiation handling and protection techniques are
followed.
- ADMINISTER the tracer.
- POSITION the patients.
- PERFORM the required tests.
- MONITOR patients during procedures.
- COMFORT patients and provide emotional support.
- CONDUCT computer analysis to produce diagnostic medical images.
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