The medical field is always evolving because of new advanced technology and discoveries. Diagnosing health problems is the first step in understanding and then treating any medical condition. Nuclear medicine is a relatively modern diagnostic method that can virtually detect all types of problems in all of the body's organs. Despite its name, X Ray imaging is not technically classified under the nuclear medicine. In general, nuclear medicine fits into the radiology branch of medicine and healthcare. The most common type of job position is known as a nuclear medicine technologist. This professional works closely with a physician and has several responsibilities. A nuclear technologist must properly administer radionucleides or radiopharmaceuticals, which are radioactive agents. Patients must ingest the radiopharmaceuticals in several ways such as IV injection, orally, or inhalation. The nuclear medicine technologist is then responsible for detecting and testing the effects of the radiopharmaceuticals on the patient's specific organs. This step involves performing an imaging process with visible results that can be interpreted by the technologist and the physician through specialized computer software. Nuclear medicine technologists must work with extremely sophisticated equipment, such as those used in PET scans. Gamma ray cameras are some other common devices used in nuclear medicine procedures. Since the job exposes workers to radiation, technologists must take rigorous safety precautions even though the radiation levels are considered safe. In addition to the technical skills, professionals in nuclear medicine field must properly handle patients. For example, patients have to be laid a certain way in the chamber scanner and lay there motionless until told otherwise. The educational requirements for becoming a nuclear medicine technologist range from a one year certificate program to a four year bachelor's degree. This medical specialty requires in depth understanding of physics, chemistry, mathematics, human Biology, and computer equipment. Some well known organizations that provide accreditation are American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board. The best employment opportunities in nuclear medicine can be found at hospitals, medical schools, and medical research facilities. The average annual salary for a nuclear medicine technologist is about $66,000 in the United States. The work schedule usually consists of a five day week, but emergency shifts may sometimes arise.