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15 March 2010

Answer to Question #8125 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Nuclear Medicine Patient Issues — Diagnostic Nuclear Medicine

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

May a technologist administer iodine-131 for diagnostic purposes (1-5 millicuries)? What is the governing rule?

The answer to this question is found in state regulations. I would venture to guess that all states have similar requirements, but can only answer for the regulations in California.

The radiation regulations in California are Title 17. All diagnostic exams in nuclear medicine are performed under general supervision. Direct supervision, which means that the physician is physically present in the room, is only required for therapy procedures. So, in California, a certified nuclear medicine technologist can administer diagnostic doses without direct supervision. Additionally, a written directive is required for all iodine-131 activities greater than 30 microcuries.

If you are still concerned, let me know what state you are in and I can see if I can find a colleague to provide information on the regulations in your state.

Marcia Hartman, MS

Answer posted on 2 April 2009. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.