Standard Occupational Classification (SOC): Nuclear Technicians

Nuclear technicians in healthcare may work in the field of nuclear medicine, which uses small amounts of radioactive materials to diagnose and treat certain medical conditions. Nuclear technicians assist physicians and technologists in the administration of these materials, and in the operation of equipment used to detect and measure radiation. They may also be involved in the preparation and handling of radioactive materials, and in the maintenance and repair of equipment.

In nuclear medicine, nuclear technicians operate equipment such as gamma cameras, PET scanners, and cyclotrons, which are used to produce radioactive materials for medical imaging and therapy. They assist with the administration of radiopharmaceuticals, which are drugs that contain small amounts of radioactive material, to patients. They also help to perform quality control procedures and ensure the safety of patients, staff and the environment.

Nuclear technicians in healthcare also may be involved in radiation therapy, which uses high doses of radiation to treat cancer and other diseases. They may assist medical physicists and radiation therapists in the operation of equipment used to deliver radiation to patients, and in the monitoring of patients’ reactions to the treatment.

In summary, Nuclear technicians in healthcare are healthcare professionals who use radioactive materials and radiation-producing equipment to diagnose and treat medical conditions, and assist in the administration of radiopharmaceuticals and radiation therapy. They also play an important role in ensuring the safety of patients, staff and the environment.