Nuclear Medicine Technologist
OFO No: 321103
Other names for Nuclear Medical Technologist:
- Nuclear Radiographer
- Radiochemist
- Radioisotope Technician / Technologist
Youtube clip – Nuclear Medicine Technologists Careers Overview
For training options in South Africa – scroll down
What is a Nuclear Medical Technologist?
The main job of a Nuclear Medical Technologist is to give radioactive drugs to patients help doctors determine the nature of the patient’s sickness. They are often found in cancer units.
The Nuclear Medical Technologist administers radioactive drugs to patient and then uses cameras to find the problem. This is a very responsible job. Special care is needed to prevents fellow workers getting too exposed to these drugs.
A Nuclear Medical Technologist uses equipment like:
- x-rays
- ultrasound
- magnetic imaging
- video etc
What does a Nuclear Medical Technologist do?
- puts patient at rest
- explains the nature of the drugs being administered as well as the procedures
- makes sure patient understands
- wears protective devices
- ensure safety is adhered to at all times
- administers measured radioactive drugs and monitors patient
- reviews and evaluates x-rays, video or computer generated images
- keeps doctors and other medical staff informed
Are you . . . ?
- a very good communicator (read, write and speak)?
- caring?
- observant?
- responsible and reliable?
- safety conscious?
- a team player?
- thorough and systematic?
How do I become a Nuclear Medical Technologist?
PATH 1
National Diploma in Radiography (Nuclear Medicine)
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Central University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- University of Johannesburg
Designation: Only once registered with the HPCSA may you then use the title.
PATH 2
National Diploma in Radiography (Nuclear Medicine)
Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Radiography
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
Designation: Only once registered with the HPCSA may you then use the title Professional Radiographer
PATH 3
Bachelor of Radiography degree
- University of Limpopo
- University of the Free State
Designation: Only once registered with the HPCSA may you then use the title Professional Radiographer
TRAINING:
- CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
- Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
- To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.
OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Biomedical Engineer or Clinical Biochemist
Is becoming a Nuclear Medical Technologist the right career choice for me?
