Nuclear Medicine Technology, Associate in Applied Science

Curriculum NUM.NUM.AAS (C217B)

Nuclear Medicine uses small amounts of radioactive materials to diagnose and treat patients. The Nuclear Medicine technologist administers the radiopharmaceutical and images the area or organ of interest to detect the gamma radiation being emitted. The scanners used for imaging, whether a gamma camera or a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) detector are integrated with computers to provide detailed images showing function and anatomy. Some procedures are acquired simultaneously in conjunction with a Computerized Tomography (CT) study to create PET/CT and SPECT/CT images. Graduates of the program are employed as entry-level technologists in variety of settings from hospitals, clinics and medical imaging centers anywhere in the United States.

Triton's two-year associate’s degree Nuclear Medicine Technology program is the only one of its kind offered by an Illinois community college.

There are many applicants who successfully complete the Nuclear Medicine program, and continue their health career education by completing the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Certificate program. This allows students to earn two modalities in healthcare careers.

Acceptance to the Nuclear Medicine Program is awarded every fall semester.

Accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Educational programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology, 820 W. Danforth Road, #B1, Edmond, OK, 73003; (405) 285-0546. website: www.jrcnmt.org.

Graduates qualify for the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board and the American Registry of Radiologic Technology, Nuclear Medicine Registry examinations.

Program Prerequisites:

• BIS 240◊ (Human Anatomy and Physiology I);
• MAT 110◊ (College Algebra) or must meet current college Math requirement for completion of MAT 110◊;
• PHY 100◊ (General Physics); and
• Must read and write at college level; can be demonstrated by course equivalency, or by meeting all current Reading and Writing requirements for RHT 101◊ placement.

Completion of the Math and Science prerequisites must not be more than five years from the start of the Nuclear Medicine program.

All prerequisite coursework must be completed with a grade of "C" or higher.

All test scores must be within the last two years.

PROGRAM LEARNING OUTCOMES:

At the successful completion of the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nuclear Medicine Technology program, the graduate will be able to:

• demonstrate the correct use of radiation safety principles such as ALARA, (“as low as reasonable achievable”) while performing standard imaging protocols;
• employ proper imaging techniques to produce images of optimal diagnostic quality;
• evaluate quality control procedures of current instrumentation to comply with proper performance standards;
• utilize effective oral communication skills in the clinical setting with patients, staff and visitors by taking patient histories and/or offering explanations of clinical procedures;
• employ effective written communication skills necessary to practice efficiently in the field of nuclear medicine by properly documenting patient histories and correctly ordering of radiopharmaceuticals or scheduled studies;
• assess correct protocols for various nuclear medicine imaging scenarios;
• practice safe and appropriate patient care aligned with current professional standards;
• explain the importance of professional development in the field of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging;
• develop a plan to maintain their certification/licensure through continuing educational credit hours;
• qualify for state licensure from Illinois Emergency Management Agency; and
• pass national certification exam(s).

Associate in Applied Science Degree