Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Job Description

_ JOB SUMMARY _

This paragraph summarizes the general nature, level and purpose of the job.

Under supervision, performs all Nuclear Medicine procedures on patients of all ages utilizing various types of imaging equipment. Prepares and administers radiopharmaceuticals following current radiation safety guidelines and assists in the administration of Therapeutic Doses. Follows State and Federal guidelines for the safe use, receipt, and disposals of radioactive materials used in Nuclear Medicine. Schedules studies in appropriate Hospital and Department systems using good judgment in prioritizing, scheduling, and collaborating with physicians in Nuclear Medicine to provide a safe and effective operation. May be responsible for specific areas of instruction in the training of Radiology students, House Staff and Residents in Nuclear Medicine procedures, protocols, equipment, and safety issues.

Primary responsibility is to ensure the safest and highest quality patient care by performing a range of essential tasks. This includes patient screening, thorough preparation, education, and the delivery of imaging services. Operating various imaging and ancillary equipment, as well as managing information systems, are integral aspects of the role. Meticulous adherence to established policies and department-specific processes and procedures is expected to maintain the highest standards of medical imaging excellence. Commitment to professionalism is essential for fostering a compassionate and respectful environment for patients, families, and staff. Plays a crucial role in accurately documenting procedures to ensure the protection of patient health information (PHI) and the integrity of data. This position involves working collaboratively under the guidance of department leaders to provide exceptional patient care and uphold the highest standards in medical imaging.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification. They are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Employees must abide by all Joint Commission Requirements including but not limited to sensitivity to cultural diversity, patient care, patient rights and ethical treatment, safety and security of physical environments, emergency management, teamwork, respect for others, participation in ongoing education and training, communication and adherence to safety and quality programs, sustaining compliance with National Patient Safety Goals, and licensure and health screenings.

Must perform all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the hospital’s policies and procedures, including its Service Standards and its Code of Conduct.

*Under supervision, performs all Nuclear Medicine procedures on patients of all ages utilizing various types of imaging equipment. Prepares and administers radiopharmaceuticals following current radiation safety guidelines and assists in the administration of Therapeutic Doses.

*Uses appropriate techniques and equipment for accurate diagnosis, as instructed by department leaders and radiologists.

*Formulates radiopharmaceutical materials from pre-prepared kits. Calibrates instruments and reviews calibration data to detect trends indicating instrument malfunction.

*Monitors supplies and equipment to make necessary orders and helps develop new programs to comply with State and Federal Agencies.

*Performs a full range of nuclear medicine prescribed imaging techniques and measurements used in medical diagnosis and evaluation.

*Prepares and maintains records concerning radiopharmaceutical receiving, dispensing, and disposal activities Processes computerized image data to include function curves and reconstructed SPECT images and accurately transfers images to the Picture Archive Communication System (PACS).

*Works with Manager to have section/unit meet all ALARA (As-Low-As Reasonably Achievable) Goals.

*Demonstrates complete knowledge of radiation accidents and can respond to a major accident.

*Calibrates, draws up and administers radiopharmaceutical materials to patients under the general supervision of the authorized user.

*Ensures consistent and reliable imaging results.

*Verifies images meet required diagnostic standards.

*Explains procedures, verifies forms, transfers patients safely, positions them correctly, and provides any post-exam instructions within specified timeframes.

*Reports major problems for repairs. Properly utilize ancillary equipment like imaging coils and transducers, power injectors, and monitors.

*Assists personnel, including students and house staff, in procedures, protocols, equipment operation, and safety guidelines.

*Maintains essential paperwork and records. Properly document charges and statistical codes to account for labor and supplies used.

*Records and promptly escalates any incidents related to patient safety, equipment malfunctions, and other relevant categories.

*Offers guidance on policies, procedures, imaging techniques, and coordination of complex imaging procedures to teammates and ancillary staff.

*Assists in protocoling, forecasting, and preparation for imaging cases by following department standard operating procedures.

*Maintains a clean, safe, and efficiently operating department through assigned duties and responsibilities.

*Reports abnormal findings, artifacts, and adverse events to the relevant radiologist or department leader for further evaluation and action.

*Adheres to modality-specific protocols and monitors radiation dose levels during imaging procedures.

*Tests and calibrates equipment to maintain image quality standards.

*Explains exams thoroughly to patients and their families, promptly addresses concerns, and provides reassurance to patients and their families during procedures.

*Stays current with advancements in radiologic technology, patient care, and department-specific techniques.

*Handles patient data and images in compliance with privacy regulations, ensuring confidentiality and security.

*Responds to emergency situations within the department, such as contrast reactions or patient distress.

*Collaborates with other healthcare professionals to ensure seamless patient care and effective teamwork.

*Assumes responsibility for facilitating staff and student training, ensuring a supportive and educational environment for skill development and knowledge acquisition.

*Promotes a positive and enjoyable work environment by encouraging a sense of camaraderie and fun within the department.

Qualifications:
Qualifications

_ MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS _

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities as well as possession of any required licenses or certifications is qualifying.

Education: Associate Degree in applicable field (e.g., diagnostic imaging or nuclear medicine)

Experience: One (1) year of progressive responsibility and directly related work experience.

License/Certification:

• Certified Nuclear Medicine Technologist by Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board
• or
• Registered Technologist - Nuclear Medicine Technology by American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
• Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification by California Department of Public Health - Radiologic Health Branch
• RQI Healthcare Provider Basic Life Support
• or
• Basic Life Support by American Heart Association (AHA)

KNOWLEDGE

These are the observable and measurable attributes and skills required to successfully perform the essential functions of the job and are generally demonstrated through qualifying experience, education, or licensure/certification.

*Demonstrates the ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, with diverse individuals at all levels, fostering cooperation and understanding.

*Shows the capacity to follow written and oral instructions while continuously learning and adapting to new procedures and tasks.

*Proficiently performs a range of general and specialized diagnostic procedures to meet quality standards.

*Capably identifies and resolves equipment issues, documents problems, and communicates them effectively.

*Collaborates effectively within a team environment, contributing to group dynamics and achieving common goals.

*Possesses knowledge of computer systems and relevant software in the functional area.

*Demonstrates knowledge of medical imaging principles, techniques, and equipment.

*Proficient in patient and equipment positioning for imaging procedures.

*Understands the principles of image processing and development applicable to diagnostic imaging.

*Recognizes and follows safety principles and procedures related to imaging procedures and equipment and prioritizes patient and staff safety.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The Physical Requirements and Working Conditions in which the job is typically performed are available from the Occupational Health Department. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Additional Information

Pay Range
Compensation is based on the level and requirements of the role.
Salary within our ranges may also be determined by your education, experience, knowledge, skills, location, and abilities, as required by the role, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.
Typically, new team members join at the minimum to mid salary range.
Minimum to Midpoint Range (Hourly): $77.90 to $88.35

Stanford Medicine Children's Health (SMCH) strongly values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination in all of its policies and practices, including the area of employment. Accordingly, SMCH does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, or disability, or the perception of any of the above. People of all genders, members of all racial and ethnic groups, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Qualified applicants with criminal convictions will be considered after an individualized assessment of the conviction and the job requirements, and where applicable, in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.