Nuclear Medicine Technology

Nuclear medicine is the medical specialty that utilizes the nuclear properties of radioactive and stable nuclides to make diagnostic evaluations of the physiologic and/or anatomic conditions of the body and to provide therapy with unsealed radioactive sources. The nuclear medicine technologist is an allied health professional who, under the direction of an authorized user, is committed to applying the art and skill of diagnostic evaluation and therapeutics through the safe and effective use of radiopharmaceuticals and pharmaceuticals. The nuclear medicine technologist exhibits professionalism in the performance of duties, demonstrates an empathetic and instructional approach to patient care and maintains confidentiality of information as required. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: preparation, quality control testing and administration of radioactive compounds; execution of patient imaging procedures including computer processing and image enhancement; laboratory testing; patient interviews; instruction and preparation for administration of prescribed radioactive compounds for therapy; quality control; and radiation safety. The nuclear medicine technologist applies knowledge of radiation physics and safety regulations to limit radiation exposure of the general public, patients, fellow workers, and self to as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA). Professional growth and development is achieved through appropriate utilization of new technologies, participation in continuing education and involvement in research to enhance the quality of patient care.

A Nuclear Medicine Technologist, whose career requires the specialist to stand for long periods, is routinely transferring patients from wheelchairs and stretchers to scanning tables, giving injections and taking vital signs with or without accommodation. A Nuclear Medicine Technologist finds employment in hospitals and diagnostic clinics. Career ladders are open for advancement into research, sales, education and management.

With further training, a Nuclear Medicine Technologist could perform computed tomography (CT) imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), diagnostic medical sonography, or radiation therapy. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics the average salary for an entry-level Nuclear medicine Technologist in May 2022.
was 43.03 - median 89,610 - Annual Median.

The Nuclear Medical Technology/Technologist program graduates licensures/certificates are issued by the nationally recognized Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) and American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT)

2022 Third-Party Licensure/Certification Exam Results

Occupational licensure and/or certification pass rates reported by calendar year (Jan. 1 – Dec. 31). Results for the 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 calendar years are provided for comparison.

There were about 1,230 (currently about 1,500) nuclear medicine technologists in the state of Texas in 2012. This number is expected to grow by 30.9% (380 jobs) from 2012-2022.

• The estimated annual job openings in Texas is about 55 jobs a year.
• Median Wages - $43.08 hourly; $89,610 annually