Nuclear medicine technologists operate cameras that detect and map a radioactive drug in a patient’s body to create diagnostic images. After explaining test procedures to a patient, technologists prepare and administer a dose of radiopharmaceuticals. They position the patient and start a gamma scintillation camera, or scanner, which creates images of the distribution of a radiopharmaceutical as it emits signals from the patient’s body. The images are produced on a computer screen or on film for a physician to interpret.
Work environment:
Nuclear medicine technologists typically work in specialized hospital departments.
Training requirements:
Nuclear medicine technologists are required to complete a one-year certificate program. Some employers may require an associate's or bachelor's degree.
Salary range:
$114,200 and up
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The number of healthcare jobs available in California is only going to grow in the coming years — and there are a lot more options than doctors and nurses.
Other jobs in healthcare offer great pay, opportunities for advancement and require only a few months or years of training. They can also be stepping stones to better-paying healthcare jobs in the future.
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