Nuclear Medicine Technologists are responsible for administering radiopharmaceuticals to patients and monitoring functions of organs and tissues using this method. Examinations applied by these professionals detect the presence of diseases on the basis of metabolic changes. They operate cameras to detect radioactive drugs in patient´s body in order to create a diagnostic image. These technologists have two areas of specialty, including positron emission tomography and nuclear cardiology.

Nuclear Medicine Technologists usually perform many of the following tasks:
• Scheduling diagnostic procedures.
• Measuring the amount of radiopharmaceuticals.
• Explaining the diagnostic procedure to patients.
• Checking intravenous fluids.
• Gathering details regarding to the medical status of the patient.

• Being able to work with a team.
• Having good patient relationship skills.
• Being able to operate equipment.
• Having knowledge on various diagnostic procedures.
• Having interpersonal skills.
• Having high attention to details.
• Having IT skills.
• Being able to work under stressful circumstances.
• Having time management skills.
• Having knowledge on the terms related to the nuclear medicine area.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist jobs require applicants having programs offered in hospitals, Associate´s degrees in community colleges, and Bachelor´s Degree programs of four years in a university or college. Subjects in these courses include biological effects of radiation exposure, physical sciences, the use of radiopharmaceuticals, radiation protection and procedures, computer applications, and imaging techniques. Certificate programs of one year are for health professionals who already possess a Bachelor´s or Associate´s Degree, such as diagnostic medical sonographers or radiologic technologists.

People working on this area can obtain certifications offered by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Professionals having a certification must complete a certain number of education hours in order to retain that qualification.