KSU Salem grads go nuclear

Staff report

Salem

Kent State University at Salem recently celebrated the graduation of its nuclear-medicine class.

Seniors Nathan Baross, Brittany Drexler, Karly Johnson, Tamarah Mahmood, Kristina McKee, Misty Secrest, Jeff Skrinyer, Elizabeth Upshir, Kathy Vogt and Sean Weyant each received a bachelor’s degree of radiologic and imaging sciences technology with a concentration in nuclear medicine.

“We are very proud of our students,” said Janet Berger, nuclear-medicine program director. “They have done a tremendous job, and we wish them great success as they begin their careers.”

As new nuclear-medicine technologists, these graduates are allied health professionals who have been educated in the art and skill of diagnostic evaluation and therapeutics through the safe and effective use of radiopharmaceuticals and pharmaceuticals.

“Not only are our students excited about graduation, but they are excited about being able to assist patients using their skills in nuclear medicine. Our students are professional and empathetic to their patients and willing to help in any way possible,” Berger said.

According to the accrediting agency for the Kent State Salem Nuclear Medicine Program, the Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology, nuclear-medicine technologists can be responsible for a variety of jobs.

Technologists may be responsible for the preparation, quality-control testing and administration of radioactive compounds; the execution of patient imaging procedures including computer processing and image enhancement; laboratory testing; patient interviews; instruction and preparation for administration of prescribed radioactive compounds for therapy; quality control; and radiation safety.

Upon graduation, these nuclear-medicine technologists will apply their knowledge of radiation physics and safety regulations to limit radiation exposure to those around them, while at the same time work toward continued professional growth and development.

“Graduates are encouraged to continue learning through continuing education and membership in the Society of Nuclear Medicine Technologists,” Berger said. “Not only does this help them as professionals, but the will continually enhance the quality of patient care.”

Kent State Salem is the only campus in the Kent State University system to offer a bachelor’s degree in radio-logic and imaging sciences technology. In addition to specializing in nuclear medicine, students may choose to concentrate in computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, diagnostic medical sonography or radiation therapy.

Kent State Salem also offers an associate degree in radiologic technology.

For more information, visit www.col.kent.edu or call 330-332-0361.