%0 Journal Article %A Jessica Long %T Training for Clinical Instructors of Nuclear Medicine %D 2021 %J Journal of Nuclear Medicine %P 3011-3011 %V 62 %N supplement 1 %X 3011Introduction: Nuclear medicine programs across the United States mandate students to complete clinical training to satisfy program requirements. Students will spend a vast majority of their educational experience working alongside certified nuclear medicine technologists at clinical affiliates. This research is a mixed methods study exploring the extent of educational theory or instructional training instructors receive. Methods: A survey was administered to clinical instructors of various nuclear medicine programs to identify the extent of the demands for instructional training in nuclear medicine technology programs. The survey was sent to clinical instructors of certificate, associate, and bachelor’s degree awarding programs. Demographic information was gathered to illustrate the level of educational degree each participate held, as well as their active role within the nuclear medicine field. The findings were generated using quantitative analysis. Interviews were then conducted on clinical instructor participant volunteers from across the country representing certificate, associate, and baccalaureate degree programs. Interview data was analyzed using qualitative analysis and triangulated, across interviews and with the qualitative analysis to identify themes. Results: 57 surveys were returned completed. 82% of participants stated they wanted training for instructional strategies, educational theory, and assessments. 58% of clinical instructors responded they have had no training on educational theory due to resources not being available to them. 21% of participants stated there was no support from their employer, and 10% noted flexibility for time off to accomplish this training an issue. Quantitative and Qualitative analysis reveals clinical instructors need and want additional training for improving clinical instruction and would seek training if it were available. Conclusion: Clinical instructors play a vital role in the education of nuclear medicine student; however, this research demonstrates clinical instructors may not be prepared or supported in their role as clinical educators. This research concludes clinical instructors experience a lack training in educational theory, teaching strategies, assessments. This research also demonstrates that clinical instructors want to provide the most appropriate means of teaching, but do not have, or are not aware, of training available and do not feel prepared for their role as an instructor. Clinical instructors would engage in additional training on educational theory, teaching strategies and evaluation or assessments if it was available. Acknowledgement: Support for this research includes the clinical instructors and program director participants. Acknowledgement to educational mentors and editors; Sara Johnson, EdS, CNMT, NMTCB(RS), RT (N) (CT) (ARRT); Mary Beth Farrell, MS, CNMT, NCT, FSNMMI-TS %U