The PET Tech performs positron emission tomography (PET) imaging procedures to support the diagnosis and management of patient conditions, ensuring safe and effective use of radiopharmaceuticals and imaging equipment. This role is responsible for delivering compassionate patient care, maintaining regulatory compliance, and supporting operational reliability in the imaging department. Performs other duties as assigned. All job responsibilities are to be carried out in alignment with Kettering Health's mission, vision, values, and B Safe program.
Required Education
- Completion of an accredited Nuclear Medicine Technology program or equivalent education as required for state licensure.
Required Work Experience
- Clinical experience in nuclear medicine or PET imaging, which may be obtained through an accredited clinical internship or prior employment.
Required Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations
- Certification by the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in Nuclear Medicine.
- State of Ohio licensure as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist (or eligibility and obtained within required timeframe per state law).
- Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Skills
- Proficiency in operating PET and PET/CT imaging equipment and related software.
- Knowledge of radiation safety principles and infection control.
- Strong communication and patient care skills.
- Ability to follow protocols, document procedures accurately, and maintain confidentiality.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams.
Essential Functions
- Prepares and positions patients for PET imaging procedures, ensuring comfort and safety throughout the process.
- Reviews patient medical histories and explains procedures to address questions or concerns.
- Calculates, prepares, and administers radiopharmaceuticals in accordance with safety protocols and regulatory requirements.
- Operates PET and PET/CT scanners, adjusting technical factors to obtain high-quality diagnostic images.
- Monitors patients during imaging procedures, recognizing and responding to adverse reactions or emergencies.
- Processes, reconstructs, and analyzes imaging data using specialized software to ensure image clarity and diagnostic value.
- Maintains accurate records of procedures performed, radiopharmaceutical usage, and patient information in compliance with regulatory standards.
- Performs routine quality control checks on imaging equipment and reports malfunctions or safety concerns promptly.
- Adheres to radiation safety, infection control, and organizational policies to protect patients, staff, and self.
- Collaborates with radiologists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to support patient diagnosis and care planning.
- Participates in continuing education and training to maintain certification and stay current with advances in PET imaging.
- Maintains confidentiality of patient information in accordance with HIPAA and organizational policies
Competencies
- Employee has basic knowledge of radiation safety
- Employee demonstrates understanding of the usage of equipment
- Employee demonstrates proper patient identification
- Employee demonstrates consistent hand hygiene practices