Under general supervision, performs a variety of technical procedures in the utilization of radionuclides; participates in quality assurance and performance improvement activities and does related or other work as required in accordance with Rule 3, Section 3, of the Civil Service Rules.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
The Nuclear Medicine Specialist III is the advanced level in the Nuclear Medicine Specialist series and is capable of operating routine and complex radioisotope equipment to obtain information for use by physicians in diagnosing patient's illnesses. At this level, incumbents may demonstrate Nuclear Medicine procedures to students and actively participate in the quality assurance and performance improvement functions of the unit. Work is performed under the supervision of the Diagnostic Imaging Manager and Radiologist following medical prescriptions and instructions.
TYPICAL DUTIES
Calculates, prepares, calibrates and administers dosages of radiopharmaceuticals; assures quality control of radiopharmaceutical and corresponding equipment.
Positions patients according to prescribed safety standards; shields patients as required; selects and uses proper immobilization and supportive devices when necessary.
Performs computerized analysis and manipulation of readings; posts results of test to proper forms and routes to physician for interpretation; reviews films for proper identification and quality checks.
Maintains adequate records of radioisotope receipt, storage, use and disposal in accordance with State and Federal regulations.
Performs daily instrument calibration procedures sufficient to affirm proper performance.
May perform routine diagnostic examinations and assist with fluoroscopic and special radiographic procedures, if certified as a Radiologic Technologist.
May demonstrate nuclear medicine and other radiographic techniques to students and other employees.
Participates in quality assurance functions and activities for the unit to ensure compliance with various regulatory agencies requirements; participates in performance improvement functions and tasks.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Experience: Three years of experience as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist in an acute care hospital or two years of experience equivalent to Nuclear Medicine Specialist II in San Joaquin County.
Licenses and Certificates: Current certification by the Department of Health, State of California, as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist AND current certification in Nuclear Medicine by a national certifying body such as the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.
KNOWLEDGE
Methods and techniques of nuclear medicine; basic anatomy and physiology at a sufficient level to allow proper positioning; principles of nuclear physics, properties of radionuclides; hazards of radioactive material and safety precautions required; use and care of radioisoptopic equipment, and methods for handling radiopharmaceutical.
ABILITY
Position requires sitting, standing, manual dexterity; bending or stooping and lifting of patients; understand and carry out complex oral and written instruction in exact detail; perform a variety of routine and complex diagnostic nuclear procedures; operate equipment; prepare radionuclides for injection; analyze films and evaluate problems; perform quality assurance activities; establish and maintain effective relationships with patients, physicians, and co-workers.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Mobility-Frequent operation of a keyboard, standing for long periods of time, walking, pushing/pulling, and operation of heavy equipment; occasional sitting for long periods of time and stair climbing; Frequency of Lifting-Constant lifting of 5 lbs. or less; frequent restraining, lifting/turning heavy objects or people; occasional lifting of 5 to above 70 lbs; Visual Requirements-Constant need for overall vision, hand/eye coordination and reading/close up work; frequent need for color perception, depth perception and field of vision; Dexterity-Constant holding, reaching and grasping; frequent writing; Hearing/Talking-Constant hearing of normal speech and talking in person; frequent hearing on the telephone/radio and talking on the radio; occasional hearing of faint sounds; Emotional/Psychological Factors-Constant public contact, decision making, concentration and working alone; frequent exposure to hazardous materials, trauma, grief and death; occasional weekend/night work and overtime/travel; Environmental Conditions-Occasional exposure to hazardous materials.
San Joaquin County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and, upon request, will consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
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