NUM-2110 Clinical Nuclear Medicine I

Credits 4
Clinical experience courses provide the opportunity for students to observe, practice and perform diagnostic and therapeutic nuclear medicine procedures, as well as participate in a quality assurance program. Clinical courses are directed, competency-based experiences in affiliate health care facilities; licensed and registered technologists (or pharmacists) provide guidance, mentorship and critiques.

This course is the first of five clinical education courses. The student will progress from primarily observing to assisting to performing under direct supervision select routine imaging procedures. For assigned imaging procedures, students will receive and greet patients using effective communication methods and verify that the requested procedure matches the physician’s order and the patient’s identity. Students will then administer the correct radiopharmaceutical and properly dispose of radioactive/medical waste, including sharps. Finally, the students will position patients for the images to be acquired. Upon study completion, the students will assist with image processing and annotate images for radiologist review. In addition to performing routine imaging procedures, the students will assist with routine quality control procedures on various nuclear medicine equipment. Students are expected to demonstrate professional behavior throughout all aspects of the clinical experience.

Prerequisite(s): NUM-2100, NUM-1450, NUM-1460, NUM-2650 with grades of C or higher
Course Outcomes

Position patients for all views of an assigned procedure.
Annotate images for radiologist review according to department policy.
Verify the patient’s identification and that the requested exam matches the physician’s order.
Administer radiopharmaceutical doses according to clinical affiliate policy and procedure.
Correctly dispose of radiopharmaceuticals, radioactive waste and medical waste.
Assist with routine quality control procedures on imaging and non-imaging equipment.
Demonstrate professional behavior and concern for the patient.