Meet our Alums

Nuclear Medicine Technology

Name:
Richard D. Siska, BSNM, CNMT R.T.(R)(N)

Program:
Nuclear Medicine Technology, Class of 2000
Radiography, Class of 1995

Current Occupation:
Chief Nuclear Medicine Technologist,  St. Johns Health System – Rolla Clinic

I love my job in healthcare because:
As a technologist, the patient education aspect is fulfilling to me.  I like being able to sit down with the patients and discuss what we are about to do.  It gives you a feeling of satisfaction when you are able to take away their anxiety. 

As a radiation safety officer, I had the duty of instructing new nurses and technologists to clear up misconceptions about radiation and teach proper safety protocols – that was definitely rewarding knowing that you can share your knowledge with others.

As the President of the Missouri Valley Chapter of the Society of Nuclear Medicine Technologist Section, I was able to meet and network with people across different states, learning different ways procedures can be done and exploring new opportunities in the world of Molecular Imaging.

My advice for students interested in healthcare is:
In order to succeed you need more than ambition or intelligence.  You need to love what you do.  Patients and physicians alike will be depending on you to provide the highest quality exam achievable with as little discomfort to the patient as possible.   Always put your self in the patient’s shoes and realize that they are most likely in pain, frustrated, or depressed and they need your reassurance at that moment in time. 

What I enjoyed most about being a student at BHSLR:
I attended BHSLR for 3 years total; 2 for Radiography and 1 for Nuclear Medicine.  I always enjoyed the family atmosphere at the school.  Nuclear Medicine classes were small, so it gave you the opportunity to get one-on-one attention.  The program director was a great educator and mentor – we were lucky to have her.  Also, the Baptist hospital was a great place for clinicals. All the technologists and staff were always ready to help, but also pushed me to stand on my own two feet.