Should the scope of practice for nuclear medicine technologists (NMT) be expanded? A technologist’s perspective

Objectives The purpose of this study is to gather a technologist’s perspective on the expansion of the scope of practice for NMT to include identifying the need for additional rest studies after a stress-first SPECT MPI (SFSM) protocol. This information may be useful in exploring ways to increase efficiency and reduce radiation dose.

Methods An anonymous, electronic Qualtrics survey containing 16 questions was sent to the clinical supervisors associated with a nuclear medicine technology training program. A total of 11 clinical affiliates were surveyed. All responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and coding for trends and themes.

Results A total of 22 responses were received. One response was excluded from analysis, as it was not a technologist. Of the 21 remaining respondents, 14(67%) female and 7(33%) male, were included with a range of 1-11+ years of experience. All respondents were CNMT, 19(90%) baccalaureate trained, the other 2(10%) were certificate. 16(71%) were familiar with SFSM protocol. Respondents outlined several advantages and disadvantages to such protocol. Including, but not limited to reduction in radiation dose, increased efficiency and misdiagnosis. 9(60%) agreed that NMT could identify the need for a rest study.13(93%) agreed additional training would be necessary for NMT to fill this role. NMAA, NP and PA were among the other healthcare professionals identified to potentially carry out this duty. None of respondents reported this in their current practice. In this study, 11(79%) stated that the NMT scope of practice should not be expanded without additional education and training.

Conclusions While 60% of the respondents agreed that an NMT could identify the need for a rest study, 79% reported that the scope of practice should not be expanded without additional education and training. Further research and follow up surveys may assist in the clarification of these findings

Research Support J. Davis, C. Botkin, W. Hubble Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Therapeutics, Doisy College of Health Sciences, St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO