In a typical work setting, nuclear medicine technologists:
Interpersonal Relationships
- Are responsible for the health and safety of patients.
- Have a high level of social contact. They constantly talk to patients and doctors.
- Communicate by telephone and in person on a daily basis. They also write e-mail, letters, and memos, but less often.
- Are sometimes placed in conflict situations where people might become rude or angry. Patients and family members may become upset by test results.
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- Regularly work as part of a team.
Physical Work Conditions
- Almost always work indoors.
- Are often exposed to radiation.
- Are sometimes exposed to disease and infections from their contact with patients.
- Regularly wear special safety attire, such as shielded gloves and badges that measure radiation levels.
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- Often use special devices to protect them from radiation.
- Work very near others. They are in close physical contact with patients.
Work Performance
- Must be very exact in their work. Errors could seriously injure patients, themselves, or coworkers.
- Make decisions that strongly impact their employer, patients, and coworkers on a regular basis. They rarely consult a supervisor before deciding a course of action.
- Set most of their daily tasks and goals without talking to a supervisor first.
- Abide by strict weekly deadlines. This may make the work atmosphere somewhat competitive.
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- Repeat the same physical or mental activities.
- Must keep up with the speed of machines.
Hours/Travel
- May work part time or full time. Most work full time.
- May work days, evenings, or weekends.
- Generally work a set schedule.