Licensure/Certification Nuclear medicine technologists must be licensed to work in Florida, which reciprocates with national certification. Applicants must graduate from an approved program and pass either the certification/registration examinations offered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists or the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board. Salary The 2006 average hourly wage for nuclear medicine technologists in Florida was $30.42. Educational Programs Certificate Jackson Health System St. Vincent's Healthcare Associate Degree Hillsborough Community College - Dale Mabry Campus Santa Fe Community College Associate of Science (AS) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree Broward Community College Bachelor's Degree Barry University Professional Associations American Society of Radiologic Technologists Society of Nuclear Medicine - Technologist Section

Nuclear medicine technologists (NMTs) use specialized equipment to assist physicians in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

In diagnosis, NMTs prepare, measure, and give radiopharmaceuticals (radioactive drugs) to patients either by injection or mouth. Then, by using a radiation-sensitive scintillation camera, images of the internal organs and the radioactive tracer biorouting through the body can be viewed on a monitor screen.

NMTs also perform laboratory analysis of blood or urine samples with radioactive materials to determine previously undetectable drug and hormone levels.

In therapy, NMTs assist in calculating the correct dosage of radiopharmaceuticals and administering it to the patient in order to treat certain diseases, such as hyperthyroidism or thyroid cancer.

Other responsibilities of NMTs include assisting in performing necessary first aid during procedures, disposing of radioactive waste, keeping inventory and control of radiopharmaceuticals, and following safety regulations to limit radiation exposure according to the standards set by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Nuclear medicine technologists must have a physical stamina, as they are on their feet most of the day.

Work Environment
Nuclear medicine technologists work in hospitals, diagnostic centers, research facilities, and educational institutions. The potential for radiation exposure is minimized by the use of protective devices and by adherence to strict radiation safety guidelines.

Job Outlook
The number of nuclear medicine technologists employed in Florida in 2006 was 1,251. It is projected that in 2014 there will be 1,488. This represents an annual average growth rate of 2.7 percent.

Length of Training/Requirements
Nuclear medicine technology programs range from one year to four years in length and lead to a certificate, associate degree, or a bachelor's degree. The curriculum includes nuclear physics, instrumentation and statistics, health physics, radiopharmacology, radiation biology, radionuclide therapy, introduction to computer application, and practicum.

Advancement
With additional education and experience, nuclear medicine technologists can advance to chief technologist in nuclear medicine departments or labs. Other advancement includes becoming administrators, educators, and researchers.