NCT (NMTCB) - Nuclear Cardiology Technologist Certification

The Nuclear Cardiology Technologist Certification (NCT) is a professional credential for technologists specializing in nuclear cardiology. This certification demonstrates expertise in performing and interpreting cardiac diagnostic tests using radioactive materials, including myocardial perfusion imaging and other nuclear cardiology procedures. The Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) awards this certification.

Completion Time: 4 hours

Cost: Application fee $225

Exam Format

The exam typically includes 160 multiple-choice questions covering nuclear cardiology procedures, radiation safety, instrumentation, radiopharmaceuticals, and image interpretation.

Tests are computer-based and are administered at a Pearson VUE test center.

Eligibility

• Completion of an accredited nuclear medicine technology program.

• Licensure or certification as a nuclear medicine technologist, such as from the NMTCB or ARRT.

• Clinical experience in nuclear cardiology, including 700 hours of documented cardiac nuclear medicine procedures.

To become a certified nuclear cardiology technologist, one needs to pass the CBNC certification exam. The exam results in either a PASS or FAIL decision.

Certification Process

• Apply for certification through a recognized certifying body like NMTCB or ARRT.

• Meet the eligibility criteria, including education, licensure, and clinical experience.

• Pass the nuclear cardiology technologist certification examination.

NCT applicants must renew annually by paying a fee and complete full recertification every 7 years. Unlike other Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board credentials, biennial continuing education isn't required to maintain NCT designation. However, recertifying every 7 years requires applicants to either pass the specialty exam or complete 42 hours of specialty-specific CE (attainable by completing 6 hours of CE during each year of certification).

Continuing education may include advances in nuclear cardiology techniques, radiation safety, patient care, and new developments in cardiac imaging technology.

For specific information regarding Nuclear Cardiology Technologist Certification, including eligibility criteria, examination details, approved educational programs, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult directly with certifying organizations such as the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). These organizations provide comprehensive resources and standards for professionals in the field of nuclear cardiology.

Career Opportunities

Nuclear Cardiology Technologists work in hospitals, cardiac clinics, and imaging centers.

They are responsible for preparing and administering radiopharmaceuticals, performing imaging procedures, ensuring patient safety, and assisting with the interpretation of test results.

The NMTCB also offers the following certifications:

• Certified Nuclear Medicine Technologist (CNMT)

• Computed Tomography (CT)

• Positron Emission Technology (PET)

• Radiation Safety (RS)

• Nuclear Medicine Advanced Associate (NMAA)