Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Nuc Med Tech
Position Type: Per Diem

Location: Northwest Medical Center Sahuarita

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.
• Collaborates with department leadership, Radiologists, and vendor(s) to update protocols on the NucMed scanners.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
• 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