Debra explained that one can get certified in several different specialties in diagnostic imaging. “There are always opportunities and such a variety of imaging modalities to learn.” You can also get raises when you earn a new certification. Currently certified in computerized tomography (CT scans) and mammography, Debra is working towards an additional certification in abdominal sonography.

“There are always opportunities in the field,” Debra says. She has worked in several hospitals, sometimes as a supervisor. If you would like to work in a certain specialty, she encourages you to go for it. “If there was a certain area of the state I wanted to live in, I would put my application in, and within six months I would usually get a job offer.” Debra adds, “It is a job that every hospital needs, so you can go any-where: hospitals, clinics—even x-ray mummies at a university.”

Working with different types of technologically sophisticated equipment is a favorite aspect of her career. “There is a lot to do with computers and digital technology. More and more of imaging is going into PACS (Picture Archival Computer Systems)” so images will be put onto DVDs instead of film.

Having worked in both large city hospitals and smaller rural hospitals, Debra prefers the smaller ones. Currently she works at the Ells-worth County Medical Center in a town of 2300 in central Kansas. “I have found one of the best things about working in small hospitals is that I have become part of a family in the workplace.” Debra feels that she wouldn’t enjoy working without that family atmosphere. She also likes rural hospitals because they don’t feel as hectic as urban facilities. “You have more control over what you do.” The disadvantage in small hospitals is that you are on call more often. “You can get called at 2 AM. When you have kids, you have to have a support system so you can go in to work for emergencies.”

Debra really enjoys being a part of the healthcare team. “Radiologic technologists use their skills to greatly assist physicians in diagnosing their patients. A single radiograph can change the course of the way the physician is treating the patient.” Much of diagnostic imaging is operator-dependent. In sonography, it is the technologist’s responsibility to point out which abnormalities the physician needs to examine.
Debra gets a lot of meaning and satisfaction from working closely with the physicians to assist in diagnosis. She points out, “Most of our job is routine, but in a split second it can turn into a fast-paced emergency situation.”

Working in diagnostic imaging is “almost like an artist at times the way you can demonstrate a human body. You learn skills to obtain radiographs without disturbing a broken leg and causing undue pain to a patient.” Debra is very enthusiastic about her career. “It is one-on-one work with the patients. You never know what each new day will bring interesting cases, interesting people, and new experiences.”

Note: A complete description of this career choice with resources is available in chapter four of the new 4th edition of Health Care Job Explosion.

Source: healthcarejobs

RELATED OCCUPATIONS: Other health occupations requiring approximately 1 year of training after high school include dental assistants, licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses, clinical laboratory technologists and technicians, and medical assistants.

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Significant Points

• Employment is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2014.
• Job opportunities are expected to be good.
• Training programs last 9 to 24 months and lead to a certificate, diploma, or associate degree.
• Hospitals will continue to be the primary employer, although much faster employment growth is expected in offices of physicians and in outpatient care centers, including ambulatory surgical centers.

Nature of Work

Surgical technologists, also called scrubs and surgical or operating room technicians, assist in surgical operations under the supervision of surgeons, registered nurses, or other surgical personnel. Surgical technologists are members of operating room teams, which most commonly include surgeons, anesthesiologists, and circulating nurses. Before an operation, surgical technologists help prepare the operating room by setting up surgical instruments and equipment, sterile drapes, and sterile solutions. They assemble both sterile and nonsterile equipment, as well as adjust and check it to ensure it is working properly. Technologists also get patients ready for surgery by washing, shaving, and disinfecting incision sites. They transport patients to the operating room, help position them on the operating table, and cover them with sterile surgical “drapes.” Technologists also observe patients’ vital signs, check charts, and assist the surgical team with putting on sterile gowns and gloves.

During surgery, technologists pass instruments and other sterile supplies to surgeons and surgeon assistants. They may hold retractors, cut sutures, and help count sponges, needles, supplies, and instruments. Surgical technologists help prepare, care for, and dispose of specimens taken for laboratory analysis and help apply dressings. Some operate sterilizers, lights, or suction machines, and help operate diagnostic equipment.
After an operation, surgical technologists may help transfer patients to the recovery room and clean and restock the operating room.

Working Conditions

Surgical technologists work in clean, well-lighted, cool environments. They must stand for long periods and remain alert during operations. At times they may be exposed to communicable diseases and unpleasant sights, odors, and materials.
Most surgical technologists work a regular 40-hour week, although they may be on call or work nights, weekends, and holidays on a rotating basis.

Employment

Surgical technologists held about 84,000 jobs in 2004. About 7 out of 10 jobs for surgical technologists were in hospitals, mainly in operating and delivery rooms. Other jobs were in offices of physicians or dentists who perform outpatient surgery and in outpatient care centers, including ambulatory surgical centers. A few, known as private scrubs, are employed directly by surgeons who have special surgical teams, like those for liver transplants.

Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement

Scholarships / Tuition Help

Online Technology Schools: Degree & certificate programs

Surgical technologists receive their training in formal programs offered by community and junior colleges, vocational schools, universities, hospitals, and the military. In 2005, the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) recognized more than 400 accredited programs. Programs last from 9 to 24 months and lead to a certificate, diploma, or associate degree. High school graduation normally is required for admission. Recommended high school courses include health, biology, chemistry, and mathematics.
Programs provide classroom education and supervised clinical experience. Students take courses in anatomy, physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, professional ethics, and medical terminology. Other studies cover the care and safety of patients during surgery, sterile techniques, and surgical procedures. Students also learn to sterilize instruments; prevent and control infection; and handle special drugs, solutions, supplies, and equipment.
Most employers prefer to hire certified technologists. Technologists may obtain voluntary professional certification from the Liaison Council on Certification for the Surgical Technologist by graduating from a CAAHEP-accredited program and passing a national certification examination. They may then use the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) designation. Continuing education or reexamination is required to maintain certification, which must be renewed every 4 years.

Certification also may be obtained from the National Center for Competency Testing. To qualify to take the exam, candidates follow one of three paths: complete an accredited training program; undergo a 2-year hospital on-the-job training program; or acquire seven years of experience working in the field. After passing the exam, individuals may use the designation Tech in Surgery-Certified, TS-C (NCCT). This certification may be renewed every 5 years through either continuing education or reexamination.
Surgical technologists need manual dexterity to handle instruments quickly. They also must be conscientious, orderly, and emotionally stable to handle the demands of the operating room environment. Technologists must respond quickly and must be familiar with operating procedures in order to have instruments ready for surgeons without having to be told. They are expected to keep abreast of new developments in the field.

Technologists advance by specializing in a particular area of surgery, such as neurosurgery or open heart surgery. They also may work as circulating technologists. A circulating technologist is the “unsterile” member of the surgical team who prepares patients; helps with anesthesia; obtains and opens packages for the “sterile” persons to remove the sterile contents during the procedure; interviews the patient before surgery; keeps a written account of the surgical procedure; and answers the surgeon’s questions about the patient during the surgery. With additional training, some technologists advance to first assistants, who help with retracting, sponging, suturing, cauterizing bleeders, and closing and treating wounds. Some surgical technologists manage central supply departments in hospitals, or take positions with insurance companies, sterile supply services, and operating equipment firms.

Job Outlook

Employment of surgical technologists is expected to grow much faster than average for all occupations through the year 2014 as the volume of surgery increases. Job opportunities are expected to be good. The number of surgical procedures is expected to rise as the population grows and ages. The number of older people, including the baby boom generation, who generally require more surgical procedures, will ac-count for a larger portion of the general population. Technological advances, such as fiber optics and laser technology, will permit an in-creasing number of new surgical procedures to be performed and also will allow surgical technologists to assist with a greater number of procedures.
Hospitals will continue to be the primary employer of surgical technologists, although much faster employment growth is expected in offices of physicians and in outpatient care centers, including ambulatory surgical centers.

Earnings

Median annual earnings of surgical technologists were $34,010 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $28,560 and $40,750. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $23,940, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $45,990. Median hourly earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of surgical technologists in May 2004 were: Offices of dentists, $37,510; Offices of physicians, $36,570; General medical and surgical hospitals, $33,130.

Resources (Partial Listing)

Accreditation Review Committee on Education in Surgical Technology (ARC-ST) – (http://www.arcst.org/) The web site has a directory of accredited educational programs.

Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) – 6 W Dry Creek Circle, Littleton, CO 80120; 303/694-9130. ( http://www.ast.org, membership@ast.org) Student membership benefits ($45/yr) include The Surgical Technologist (with job ads) and a discount on the study guide and certification test. The web site has information on education and scholarships, with career description on the Profession web page. Jobs online are by region or members may call 800/637-7433 for help finding employment.

Liaison Council on Certification for the Surgical Technologist (LCC-ST) – 6 West Dry Creek Circle, Suite 100, Littleton, CO 80120; 800/707-0057. (http://www.lcc-st.org/) Contact for information on certification.
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Other Occupations

Other health occupations requiring approximately 1 year of training after high school include dental assistants, licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses, clinical laboratory technologists and technicians, and medical assistants.

Source: healthcarejobs

• Cardiovascular Technologists and Technicians
  • Vascular Technologists
  • Electrocardiographers
  • Cardiographic (EKG) Technicians
  • Cardiology Technologists
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CARDIOVASCULAR TECHNOLOGISTS AND TECHNICIANS

RELATED OCCUPATIONS:

• Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
• Nuclear medicine Technologists
• Radiation Therapists
• Radiologic Technologists
• Respiratory Therapists

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Significant Points

• About 3 out of 4 jobs were in hospitals.
• The vast majority of cardiovascular technologists and technicians complete a 2-year junior or community college program.
• Employment will grow much faster than the average, but the number of job openings created will be low because the occupation is small.
• Employment of most specialties will grow, but fewer EKG technicians will be needed.

Nature of Work

Cardiovascular technologists and technicians assist physicians in diagnosing and treating cardiac (heart) and peripheral vascular (blood vessel) ailments. Cardiovascular technologists may specialize in any of three areas of practice: invasive cardiology, echocardiography, and vascular technology. Cardiovascular technicians who specialize in electro-cardiograms (EKGs), stress testing, and Holter monitors are known as cardiographic technicians, or EKG technicians.
Cardiovascular technologists specializing in invasive procedures are called cardiology technologists. They assist physicians with cardiac catheterization procedures in which a small tube, or catheter, is threaded through a patient’s artery from a spot on the patient’s groin to the heart. The procedure can determine whether a blockage exists in the blood vessels that supply the heart muscle. The procedure also can help to diagnose other problems. Part of the procedure may involve balloon angioplasty, which can be used to treat blockages of blood vessels or heart valves without the need for heart surgery. Cardiology technologists assist physicians as they insert a catheter with a balloon on the end to the point of the obstruction.

Technologists prepare patients for cardiac catheterization and bal-loon angioplasty by first positioning them on an examining table and then shaving, cleaning, and administering anesthesia to the top of their leg near the groin. During the procedures, they monitor patients’ blood pressure and heart rate with EKG equipment and notify the physician if something appears to be wrong. Technologists also may prepare and monitor patients during open-heart surgery and during the insertion of pacemakers and stents that open up blockages in arteries to the heart and major blood vessels.

Cardiovascular technologists who specialize in echocardiography or vascular technology often run noninvasive tests using ultrasound instrumentation, such as Doppler ultrasound. Tests are “noninvasive” if they do not require the insertion of probes or other instruments into the patient’s body. The ultrasound instrumentation transmits high frequency sound waves into areas of the patient’s body and then processes reflected echoes of the sound waves to form an image. Technologists view the ultrasound image on a screen and may record the image on videotape or photograph it for interpretation and diagnosis by a physician. As the instrument scans the image, technologists check the image on the screen for subtle differences between healthy and diseased areas, decide which images to include in the report to the physician, and judge whether the images are satisfactory for diagnostic purposes. They also explain the procedure to patients, record any additional medical history the patient relates, select appropriate equipment settings, and change the patient’s position as necessary. (Information about diagnostic medical sonographers is presented later in this chapter.)
Those who assist physicians in the diagnosis of disorders affecting the circulation are known as vascular technologists or vascular sonographers. They perform a medical history, evaluate pulses and assess blood flow in arteries and veins by listening to the vascular flow sounds for abnormalities. Then they perform a noninvasive procedure using ultrasound instrumentation to record vascular information such as vascular blood flow, blood pressure, changes in limb volume, oxygen saturation, cerebral circulation, peripheral circulation, and abdominal circulation. Many of these tests are performed during or immediately after surgery.
Technologists who use ultrasound to examine the heart chambers, valves, and vessels are referred to as cardiac sonographers, or echo-cardiographers. They use ultrasound instrumentation to create images called echocardiograms. An echocardiogram may be performed while the patient is either resting or physically active. Technologists may administer medication to physically active patients to assess their heart function. Cardiac sonographers also may assist physicians who perform transesophageal echocardiography, which involves placing a tube in the patient’s esophagus to obtain ultrasound images.
Cardiovascular technicians who obtain EKGs are known as electro-cardiograph (or EKG) technicians. To take a basic EKG, which traces electrical impulses transmitted by the heart, technicians attach electrodes to the patient’s chest, arms, and legs, and then manipulate switches on an EKG machine to obtain a reading. An EKG is printed out for interpretation by the physician. This test is done before most kinds of surgery or as part of a routine physical examination, especially on per-sons who have reached middle age or who have a history of cardio-vascular problems.
EKG technicians with advanced training perform Holter monitor and stress testing. For Holter monitoring, technicians place electrodes on the patient’s chest and attach a portable EKG monitor to the patient’s belt. Following 24 or more hours of normal activity by the patient, the technician removes a tape from the monitor and places it in a scanner. After checking the quality of the recorded impulses on an electronic screen, the technician usually prints the information from the tape for analysis by a physician. Physicians use the output from the scanner to diagnose heart ailments, such as heart rhythm abnormalities or problems with pacemakers.
For a treadmill stress test, EKG technicians document the patient’s medical history, explain the procedure, connect the patient to an EKG monitor, and obtain a baseline reading and resting blood pressure. Next, they monitor the heart’s performance while the patient is walking on a treadmill, gradually increasing the treadmill’s speed to observe the effect of increased exertion. Like vascular technologists and cardiac sonoraphers, cardiographic technicians who perform EKG, Holter monitor, and stress tests are known as “noninvasive” technicians.

Some cardiovascular technologists and technicians schedule appointments, type doctors’ interpretations, maintain patient files, and care for equipment.

Working Conditions

Technologists and technicians generally work a 5-day, 40-hour week that may include weekends. Those in catheterization laboratories tend to work longer hours and may work evenings. They also may be on call during the night and on weekends.
Cardiovascular technologists and technicians spend a lot of time walking and standing. Heavy lifting may be involved to move equip-ment or transfer patients. These workers wear heavy protective aprons while conducting some procedures. Those who work in catheterization laboratories may face stressful working conditions because they are in close contact with patients with serious heart ailments. For example, some patients may encounter complications that have life-or-death implications.

Employment

Cardiovascular technologists and technicians held about 45,000 jobs in 2004. About 3 out 4 jobs were in hospitals (private and government), primarily in cardiology departments. The remaining jobs were mostly in offices of physicians, including cardiologists or in medical and diagnostic laboratories, including diagnostic imaging centers.

Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement

Scholarships / Tuition Help

Although a few cardiovascular technologists, vascular technologists, and cardiac sonographers are currently trained on the job, most receive training in 2- to 4-year programs. The majority of technologists complete a 2-year junior or community college program, but 4-year programs are increasingly available. The first year is dedicated to core courses and is followed by a year of specialized instruction in either invasive, noninvasive cardiovascular, or noninvasive vascular technology. Those who are qualified in an allied health profession need to complete only the year of specialized instruction.
Graduates of the 33 programs accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Cardiovascular Technology are eligible to obtain professional certification in cardiac catheterization, echocardiography, vascular ultrasound, and cardiographic techniques from Cardiovascular Credentialing International. Cardiac sonographers and vascular technologists also may obtain certification from the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers.

Most EKG technicians are trained on the job by an EKG supervisor or a cardiologist. On-the-job training usually lasts about 8 to 16 weeks. Most employers prefer to train people already in the health care field—nursing aides, for example. Some EKG technicians are students enrolled in 2-year programs to become technologists, working part time to gain experience and make contact with employers. One-year certi-fication programs exist for basic EKGs, Holter monitoring, and stress testing.

Cardiovascular technologists and technicians must be reliable, have mechanical aptitude, and be able to follow detailed instructions. A plea-sant, relaxed manner for putting patients at ease is an asset.

Online Technology Schools: Degree & certificate programs

Job Outlook

Employment of cardiovascular technologists and technicians is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2014. Growth will occur as the population ages, be-cause older people have a higher incidence of heart problems and use more diagnostic imaging. Employment of vascular technologists and echocardiographers will grow as advances in vascular technology and sonography reduce the need for more costly and invasive procedures. However, fewer EKG technicians will be needed, as hospitals train nursing aides and others to perform basic EKG procedures. Individuals trained in Holter monitoring and stress testing are expected to have more favorable job prospects than are those who can perform only a basic EKG.
Some job openings for cardiovascular technologists and technicians will arise from replacement needs as individuals transfer to other jobs or leave the labor force. However, job growth and replacement needs will produce relatively few job openings because the occupation is small.

Earnings

Median annual earnings of cardiovascular technologists and technicians were $38,690 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $27,890 and $50,130. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $21,790, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $59,000. Median annual earnings of cardiovascular technologists and technicians in May 2004 were $36,890 in offices of physicians and $38,150 in general medical and surgical hospitals.

Resources (Partial Listing)

All Healthcare Jobs – ( http://www.allhealthcarejobs.com/ ) Search job ads, post your résumé or receive email job alerts on sites specific for CT technologists, cardiac cath techs, Radiology techs, mammography, MRI technologists, nuclear medicine, PET, radiologic technologists and ultrasound.

Alliance of Cardiovascular Professionals (ACVP) – Thalia Landing Offices, Bldg. 2, 4356 Bonney Road, #103, Virginia Beach, VA 23452-1200; 757/497-1225. For all specialties in cardiovascular service. Provides credentialing. Web site has career information and a message board for networking. Job Board has ads and allows you to post your résumé. ( http://www.acp-online.org/, peggymcelgunn@comcast.net )

Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI) – 1500 Sunday Drive, Suite 102, Raleigh, NC 27607; 800/326-0268. Credentialing information, online job listings and links to educational programs. ( http://www.cci-online.org/ )

Joint Review Committee on Education in Cardiovascular Technology (JRC-CVT) – 1248 Harwood Rd, Bedford, Texas 76021-4244; 214/206-3117.   (http://www.jrccvt.org/) Web site has a directory of accredited education institutions.

The Society of Invasive Cardiovascular Professionals (SICP) – 1500 Sunday Drive, Suite 102, Raleigh, NC 27607; 919/861-4546.
( http://www.sicp.com , membership@sicp.com ) Subscription to Cath-Lab Digest, for the non-physician cardiac catheterization lab professional, is free to qualified personnel. No jobs on the web site.
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Other Occupations

Cardiovascular technologists and technicians operate sophisticated equipment that helps physicians and other health practitioners to diagnose and treat patients. So do diagnostic medical sonographers, nuclear medicine technologists, radiation therapists, radiologic technologists and technicians, and respiratory therapists.

Source: healthcarejobs

RELATED OCCUPATIONS:

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Significant Points

• About 7 out of 10 work in hospitals.
• Nuclear medicine technology programs range in length from 1 to 4 years and lead to a certificate, an associate degree, or a bachelor’s degree.
• Faster than average growth will arise from an increase in the number of middle-aged and elderly persons, who are the primary users of diagnostic procedures.
• The number of job openings each year will be relatively low because the occupation is small; technologists who also are trained in other diagnostic methods, such as radiologic technology or diagnostic medical sonography, will have the best prospects.

Nature of Work

Diagnostic imaging embraces several procedures that aid in diagnosing ailments, the most familiar being the x-ray. Another increasingly common diagnostic imaging method, called magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), uses giant magnets and radio waves, rather than radiation, to create an image. In nuclear medicine, radionuclides—unstable atoms that emit radiation spontaneously—are used to diagnose and treat disease. Radionuclides are purified and com-pounded to form radio-pharmaceuticals. Nuclear medicine technologists administer radio-pharmaceuticals to patients and then monitor the characteristics and functions of tissues or organs in which the drugs localize. Abnormal areas show higher-than-expected or lower-than expected concentrations of radioactivity. Nuclear medicine differs from other diagnostic imaging technologies because it determines the presence of disease on the basis of biological changes rather than changes in organ structure.

Nuclear medicine technologists operate cameras that detect and map the radioactive drug in a patient’s body to create diagnostic images. After explaining test procedures to patients, technologists prepare a dosage of the radiopharmaceutical and administer it by mouth, injection, in-halation, or other means. They position patients and start a gamma scintillation camera, or “scanner,” which creates images of the distribution of a radiopharmaceutical as it localizes in, and emits signals from, the patient’s body. The images are produced on a computer screen or on film for a physician to interpret.
When preparing radiopharmaceuticals, technologists adhere to safety standards that keep the radiation dose to workers and patients as low as possible. Technologists keep patient records and record the amount and type of radionuclides that they receive, use, and discard.
Radiologic technologists and technicians, diagnostic medical sonographers, and cardiovascular technologists and technicians also operate diagnostic imaging equipment, but their equipment creates images by means of a different technology. (See the statements on these occupations elsewhere in this chapter.)
Nuclear medicine technologists also perform radioimmunoassay studies that assess the behavior of a radioactive substance inside the body. For example, technologists may add radioactive substances to blood or serum to determine levels of hormones or of therapeutic drugs in the body. Most nuclear medicine studies, such as cardiac function studies, are processed with the aid of a computer.

Working Conditions

Nuclear medicine technologists generally work a 40-hour week, perhaps including evening or weekend hours, in departments that operate on an extended schedule. Opportunities for part-time and shift work also are available. In addition, technologists in hospitals may have on-call duty on a rotational basis.
Physical stamina is important because technologists are on their feet much of the day and may lift or turn disabled patients.

Although the potential for radiation exposure exists in this field, it is kept to a minimum by the use of shielded syringes, gloves, and other protective devices and by adherence to strict radiation safety guidelines. The amount of radiation in a nuclear medicine procedure is comparable to that received during a diagnostic x-ray procedure. Technologists also wear badges that measure radiation levels. Because of safety programs, badge measurements rarely exceed established safety levels.

Employment

Nuclear medicine technologists held about 18,000 jobs in 2004. About 7 out of 10 were in hospitals—private and government. Most of the rest were in offices of physicians or in medical and diagnostic laboratories, including diagnostic imaging centers.

Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement

Scholarships / Tuition Help

Many employers and an increasing number of states require certification or licensure. Aspiring nuclear medicine technologists should check the requirements of the state in which they plan to work. Certification is available from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and from the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board. Some workers receive certification from both agencies. Nuclear medicine technologists must meet the minimum federal standards on the administration of radioactive drugs and the operation of radiation detection equipment.
Nuclear medicine technology programs range in length from 1 to 4 years and lead to a certificate, an associate degree, or a bachelor’s degree. Generally, certificate programs are offered in hospitals, associate degree programs in community colleges, and bachelor’s degree programs in 4-year colleges and universities. Courses cover the physical sciences, biological effects of radiation exposure, radiation protection and procedures, the use of radiopharmaceuticals, imaging techniques, and computer applications.
One-year certificate programs are for health professionals who already posses an associate degree—especially radiologic technologists and diagnostic medical sonographers—but who wish to specialize in nuclear medicine. The programs also attract medical technologists, registered nurses, and others who wish to change fields or specialize. Others interested in nuclear medicine technology have three options: a 2-year certificate program, a 2-year associate degree program, or a 4-year bachelor’s degree program.

The Joint Review Committee on Education Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology accredits most formal training programs in nuclear medicine technology. In 2005, there were 100 accredited programs in the continental United states and Puerto Rico.
Nuclear medicine technologists should be sensitive to patients’ physical and psychological needs. They must pay attention to detail, follow instructions, and work as part of a team. In addition, operating complicated equipment requires mechanical ability and manual dexterity.
Technologists may advance to supervisor, then to chief technologist, and, finally, to department administrator or director. Some technologists specialize in a clinical area such as nuclear cardiology or computer analysis or leave patient care to take positions in research laboratories. Some become instructors in, or directors of, nuclear medicine technology programs, a step that usually requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the subject. Others leave the occupation to work as sales or training representatives for medical equipment and radiopharmaceutical manu-facturing firms or as radiation safety officers in regulatory agencies or hospitals.

Online Technology Schools: Degree & certificate programs

Job Outlook

Employment of nuclear medicine technologists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2014. Growth will arise from technological advancement, the development of new nuclear medicine treatments, and an increase in the number of middle-aged and older persons, who are the primary users of diagnostic procedures, including nuclear medicine tests. However, the number of openings each year will be relatively low because the occupation is small. Technologists who also are trained in other diagnostic methods, such as radiologic technology or diagnostic medical sonography, will have the best prospects.
Technological innovations may increase the diagnostic uses of nu-clear medicine. One example is the use of radiopharmaceuticals in combination with monoclonal antibodies to detect cancer at far earlier stages than is customary today and without resorting to surgery. Another is the use of radionuclides to examine the heart’s ability to pump blood. New nuclear medical imaging technologies, including positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), are expected to be used increasingly and to contribute further to employment growth. The wider use of nuclear medical imaging to observe metabolic and biochemical changes during neurology, cardiology, and oncology procedures also will spur demand for nuclear medicine technologists.
Nonetheless, cost considerations will affect the speed with which new applications of nuclear medicine grow. Some promising nuclear medicine procedures, such as positron emission tomography, are extremely costly, and hospitals contemplating these procedures will have to consider equipment costs, reimbursement policies, and the number of potential users.

Earnings

Median annual earnings of nuclear medicine technologists were $56,450 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $48,720 and $67,460. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $41,800, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $80,300. Median annual earnings of nuclear medicine technologists in May 2004 were $54,920 in general medical and surgical hospitals.

Resources (Partial Listing)

American Nuclear Society (ANS) – 555 North Kensington Ave., La Grange Park, IL 60526; 708/352-6611. ( http://www.ans.org ) Members may post résumés and search ads online. Students can find information on nuclear careers and scholarships.

Careers in Nuclear Medicine – http://www.cnmt.com, custo-merservice@cnmt.com) Offers an employment news letter for medical technologists. Search jobs database, post your résumé or have job email alerts sent to you. Phone number 866/266-8776.

Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board – 2970 Clairmont Rd., Suite 935, Atlanta, GA 30329; 404/315-1739. ( http://www.nmtcb.org ) Certifies technologists. The web site has a presentation “Introduction to Nuclear Medicine” and links to job ads.

Society of Nuclear Medicine (SNM) – 1850 Samuel Morse Drive, Reston, VA 22090; 703/708-9000. ( http://www.snm.org ). The web site has information about nuclear medicine, scholarships, certification/licensure and resources for students, including networking and a directory of accredited education programs. The online job bank gives you the URL of the employers.
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Other Occupations

Nuclear medical technologists operate sophisticated equipment to help physicians and other health practitioners diagnose and treat patients. cardiovascular technologists and technicians, clinical laboratory technologists and technicians, diagnostic medical sonographers, radia-tion therapists, radiologic technologists and technicians, and respiratory therapists perform similar functions.

Source: healthcarejobs

OCCUPATIONAL TITLES:

• Blood Bank Technologists
• Clinical Chemistry Technologists
• Cytotechnologists
• Histology Technicians
• Immunology Technologists
• Medical Laboratory Techs
• Medical Technologists
• Microbiology Technologists
• Phlebotomists

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• Analytical & Other Chemists
• Materials Scientists
• Crime Laboratory Analysts
• Food Testers
• Science Technicians
• Veterinary Lab Technicians

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Significant Points

• Faster than average employment growth is expected as the volume of laboratory tests continues to increase with both population growth and the development of new types of tests.
• Clinical laboratory technologists usually have a bachelor’s degree with a major in medical technology or in one of the life sciences; clinical laboratory technicians generally need either an associate degree or a certificate.
• Job opportunities are expected to be excellent.

Nature of the Work

Clinical laboratory testing plays a crucial role in the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of disease. Clinical laboratory technologists, also referred to as clinical laboratory scientists or medical technologists, and clinical laboratory technicians, also known as medical technicians or medical laboratory technicians, perform most of these tests.
Clinical laboratory personnel examine and analyze body fluids and cells. They look for bacteria, parasites, and other microorganisms; analyze the chemical content of fluids; match blood for transfusions; and test for drug levels in the blood to show how a patient is responding to treatment. Technologists also prepare specimens for examination, count cells, and look for abnormal cells in blood and body fluids. They use automated equipment and computerized instruments capable of per-forming a number of tests simultaneously, as well as microscopes, cell counters, and other sophisticated laboratory equipment. Then they analyze the results and relay them to physicians. With increasing automation and the use of computer technology, the work of technologists and technicians has become less hands-on and more analytical.
The complexity of tests performed, the level of judgment needed, and the amount of responsibility workers assume depend largely on the amount of education and experience they have.
Clinical laboratory technologists perform complex chemical, bio-logical, hematological, immunologic, microscopic, and bacteriological tests. Technologists microscopically examine blood and other body flu-ids. They make cultures of body fluid and tissue samples, to determine the presence of bacteria, fungi, parasites, or other microorganisms. Clinical laboratory technologists analyze samples for chemical content or a chemical reaction and determine concentrations of compounds such as blood glucose and cholesterol levels. They also type and cross match blood samples for transfusions.

Clinical laboratory technologists evaluate test results, develop and modify procedures, and establish and monitor programs, to ensure the accuracy of tests. Some technologists supervise clinical laboratory technicians.
Technologists in small laboratories perform many types of tests, whereas those in large laboratories generally specialize. Technologists who prepare specimens and analyze the chemical and hormonal con-tents of body fluids are called clinical chemistry technologists. Those who examine and identify bacteria and other microorganisms are microbiology technologists. Blood bank technologists, or immunohe-matology technologists, collect, type, and prepare blood and its components for transfusions. Immunology technologists examine elements of the human immune system and its response to foreign bodies. Cytotechnologists prepare slides of body cells and examine these cells microscopically for abnormalities that may signal the beginning of a cancerous growth. Molecular biology technologists perform complex protein and nucleic acid testing on cell samples.
Clinical laboratory technicians perform less complex tests and laboratory procedures than technologists perform. Technicians may prepare specimens and operate automated analyzers, for example, or they may perform manual tests in accordance with detailed instructions. Like technologists, they may work in several areas of the clinical laboratory or specialize in just one. Histotechnicians cut and stain tissue specimens for microscopic examination by pathologists, and phlebotomists collect blood samples. They usually work under the supervision of medical and clinical laboratory technologists or laboratory managers.

Working Conditions

Hours and other working conditions of clinical laboratory technologists and technicians vary with the size and type of employment setting. In large hospitals or in independent laboratories that operate continuously, personnel usually work the day, evening, or night shift and may work weekends and holidays. Laboratory personnel in small facilities may work on rotating shifts, rather than on a regular shift. In some facilities, laboratory personnel are on call several nights a week or on weekends, in case of an emergency.
Clinical laboratory personnel are trained to work with infectious specimens. When proper methods of infection control and sterilization are followed, few hazards exist. Protective masks, gloves, and goggles are often necessary to ensure the safety of laboratory personnel.
Laboratories usually are well lighted and clean; however, specimens, solutions, and reagents used in the laboratory sometimes produce fumes. Laboratory workers may spend a great deal of time on their feet.

Employment

Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians held about 302,000 jobs in 2004. More than half of these jobs were in hospitals. Most of the remaining jobs were in offices of physicians and in medical and diagnostic laboratories. A small proportion were in educational services and in all other ambulatory health care services.

Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement

Educational Opportunities – Healthcare degree & certificate programs

The usual requirement for an entry-level position as a clinical laboratory technologist is a bachelor’s degree with a major in medical technology or in one of the life sciences; although it is possible to qualify through a combination of education, on-the-job, and specialized training. Universities and hospitals offer medical technology programs.
Bachelor’s degree programs in medical technology include courses in chemistry, biological sciences, microbiology, mathematics, and statistics, as well as specialized courses devoted to knowledge and skills used in the clinical laboratory. Many programs also offer or require courses in management, business, and computer applications. The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act requires technologists who perform highly complex tests to have at least an associate degree.

Scholarships / Tuition Help

Medical and clinical laboratory technicians generally have either an associate degree from a community or junior college or a certificate from a hospital, a vocational or technical school, or one of the U.S. Armed Forces. A few technicians learn their skills on the job.
The National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) fully accredits 469 programs for medical and clinical laboratory technologists, medical and clinical laboratory technicians, histotechnologists and histotechnicians, cytogenetic technologists, and diagnostic molecular scientists. NAACLS also approves 57 programs in phlebotomy and clinical assisting. Other nationally recognized accrediting agencies that accredit specific areas for clinical laboratory workers include the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs and the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.
Some states require laboratory personnel to be licensed or registered. Information on licensure is available from state departments of health or boards of occupational licensing. Certification is a voluntary process by which a nongovernmental organization, such as a professional society or certifying agency, grants recognition to an individual whose professional competence meets prescribed standards. Widely accepted by employers in the health care industry, certification is a prerequisite for most jobs and often is necessary for advancement. Agencies certifying medical and clinical laboratory technologists and technicians include the Board of Registry of the American Society for Clinical Pathology, the American Medical Technologists, the National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel, and the Board of Registry of the American Association of Bioanalysts. These agencies have different requirements for certification and different organizational sponsors.

Clinical laboratory personnel need good analytical judgment and the ability to work under pressure. Close attention to detail is essential, because small differences or changes in test substances or numerical readouts can be crucial for patient care. Manual dexterity and normal color vision are highly desirable. With the widespread use of automated laboratory equipment, computer skills are important. In addition, technologists in particular are expected to be good at problem solving.
Technologists may advance to supervisory positions in laboratory work or may become chief medical or clinical laboratory technologists or laboratory managers in hospitals. Manufacturers of home diagnostic testing kits and laboratory equipment and supplies seek experienced technologists to work in product development, marketing, and sales. A graduate degree in medical technology, one of the biological sciences, chemistry, management, or education usually speeds advancement. A doctorate is needed to become a laboratory director; however, federal regulation allows directors of moderately complex laboratories to have either a master’s degree or a bachelor’s degree, combined with the appropriate amount of training and experience. Technicians can become technologists through additional education and experience.

Job Outlook

Employment of clinical laboratory workers is expected to grow faster than average for all occupations through the year 2014, as the volume of laboratory tests continues to increase with both population growth and the development of new types of tests.
Technological advances will continue to have two opposing effects on employment. On the one hand, new, increasingly powerful diagnostic tests will encourage additional testing and spur employment. On the other hand, research and development efforts targeted at simplifying routine testing procedures may enhance the ability of non-laboratory personnel—physicians and patients in particular—to perform tests now conducted in laboratories. Although hospitals are expected to continue to be the major employer of clinical laboratory workers, employment is expected to grow faster in medical and diagnostic laboratories, offices of physicians, and all other ambulatory health care services.
Although significant, job growth will not be the only source of opportunities. As in most occupations, many openings will result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations, retire, or stop working for some other reason.

Earnings

Median annual earnings of medical and clinical laboratory technologists were $45,730 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $38,740 and $54,310. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $32,240, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $63,120. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of medical and clinical laboratory technologists in May 2004 were as follows: General medical and surgical hospitals, $46,020; Medical and diagnostic laboratories, $45,840; Offices of physicians, $41,070.
Median annual earnings of medical and clinical laboratory technicians were $30,840 in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $24,890 and $37,770. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $20,410, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $45,680. Median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of medical and clinical laboratory technicians in May 2004 were as follows: Colleges, universities, and professional schools, $32,410; General medical and surgical hospitals, $31,830; Offices of physicians, $29,620; Medical and diagnostic laboratories, $29,220; Other ambulatory health care services, $28,130.
According to the American Society for Clinical Pathology, median hourly wages of staff clinical laboratory technologists and technicians in 2003 varied by specialty and laboratory type as follows: Cytotechnoligists, $24.07 to $25.66; Histotechnologists, $19.22 to $20.50; Medical technologists, $19.00 to $20.40; Histotechnicians, $16.13 to $20.00; Medical laboratory technicians, $14.75 to $16.12; Phlebotomists, $10.50 to $11.13.

Source: healthcarejobs

For those who are willing to commit to working in rural or inner city health care, several programs offer tuition, tuition with living expenses or loan repayment. The Rural Recruitment and Retention Net-work, and the National Rural Health Association (see both in chapter 3) and the Rural Information Center (800-633-7701) can be contacted for specific information and guidance. Visit www.nal.usda.gov/ric/ to find out more about these programs. Contact your state department of health, the Rural Assistance Center www.raconline.org or the National Health Service Corps www.bphc.hrsa.gov/. The NHSC also has information on loan-repayment programs for health care workers in inner-city areas.

Assistance is available to minority students through programs offered by institutions such as the Indian Health Service. Visit their web site at www.ihs.gov .http://www.bphc.hrsa.gov/ Contact the financial aid office of your college or of the nearest medical school.

The United States Armed Services offers abundant educational opportunities. If you enlist for several years they will train you for many health care or computer-related careers. Their Tuition Assistance Program currently pays up to $4,500 per year for full-time active duty members. Eligible College Fund Program enlistees receive up to $65,000 toward college tuition, when combined with the Montgomery G.I. Bill, and upon honorable discharge. Registered nurses who enlist, in addition to loan repayment or sign-up bonuses, may work towards a degree as a nurse practitioner or physician assistant. Students who have their pre-med degree can arrange to have their medical or dental school paid for. Call your local recruiter to get details on education programs or visit the U.S. Army’s web site at www.todaysmilitary.com/.

There are many programs available for those who take the time to seek them out. Contact local hospitals that are short staffed and other medical providers to ask about tuition assistance programs. Directories with hospital contact information are described in Chapter 3. Many employers offer tuition assistance to current employees who show initiative and maintain good grades. It is amazing just how many programs are available especially when demand for workers is high and com-petition is fierce between recruiters and medical facilities in general.

There are also magnet schools that specialize in health care training in cities like Los Angeles and Baltimore. The Chicago Public Schools has a program to encourage minorities to go into medicine and the AMA has a “Doctors Back to School” program, sending physicians to speak in schools to get young people interested in medical careers.

The federal government started offering student loan payoff incentives for new hires in 2004 and since then have paid out over 100 million to employees to pay off their loans. They will pay up to $10,000 a year for six years for a total of up to $60,000, quite a benefit to say the least. Visit http://federaljobs.net to explore federal job options. Uncle Sam employs over 100,000 medical workers at VA facilities nationwide and at other agencies such as Health and Human Services, etc. The all new 10th edition of The Book of U.S. Government Jobs explains where the jobs are, what’s available, and how to get one. A section is devoted to recruitment incentives including the student loan payoff program, cash incentives, and relocation reimbursement.

Locate programs that you find attractive through the use of the resources listed in this chapter and in all of the other resource sections located throughout this book. Don’t forget to contact occupational associations to find out what information they may have concerning scholarships and tuition assistance programs. The more contacts you make the more programs you will uncover in your research.

To explore health care jobs with the federal government or to investigate special emphasis hiring programs obtain a copy of the author’s Book of U.S. Government Jobs – 9th edition, available at libraries, bookstores or from the publisher. This book can be purchased through our toll free service with all major credit cards at 1-800-782-7424 (Orders Only) or order online.