nuclear medicine technologist - cascades east ahec and tracer studies utilizing a variety of...

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Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Prepare, administer, and measure radioactive isotopes in therapeutic,

diagnostic and tracer studies utilizing a variety of radioisotope

equipment. Prepare stock solutions of radioactive materials and

calculate doses to be administered by radiologists.

What do Nuclear Medi- cine Technolo-

gists do?

uclear Medicine Technol- ogists administer radio-

pharmaceuticals to patients and then monitor the charac- teristics and functions of tis- sues or organs in which the drugs localize. Nuclear medicine differs from other diagnostic imaging technologies because it determines the presence of disease on the basis of metabolic changes, rather than changes in organ structure.

Nuclear medicine technologists operate cameras that detect and map the radioactive drug in a patient's body to create diagnostic images. They can also specialize in clinical areas, such as nuclear cardiology or positron emis- sion tomography (PET).

Work Setting uclear medicine technol-

ogists generally work a 40-hour week. Some technologists also may have on-call hours, including evening or weekend hours, in departments that operate on an extended schedule. Opportunities for part-time and shift work also are available. Those employed by mobile imaging services may be required to travel to several locations.

Although the potential for

radiation exposure exists in this field, it is minimized by the use of shielded syringes, gloves, and other protective devices and by adherence to strict radiation safety guide- lines. Technologists also wear badges that measure radiation levels. Because of safety pre- cautions, badge measurements rarely exceed established safety levels.

Current Jobs & Wages,

Future Outlook In Oregon, nuclear medi-

cine technologists earned an average of $77,373 in 2011.

There were around 215 nuclear medicine technologists employed in 2011, and it is projected to increase to 244 by 2018, in Oregon.

Aptitudes and Skills Physical stamina is im-

portant because nuclear medicine technologists are on their feet much of the day and may have to lift or turn disabled patients. In addition, technologists must operate complicated

equipment that requires mechanical ability and manual dexterity.

Nuclear medicine technologists should be good communi- cators, team players, and good

with problem solving. Com- passion is also another good trait to have.

They must also be able to work independently with little supervision and detailed- orientated.

Hiring About 66 percent of all

nuclear medicine technologists were employed in hospitals, both public and private. The rest work in doctors’ offices and medical or diagnostic lab- oratories.

In 2008, 25 states licensed nuclear medical technologists. Many third-party payers require technologists to be certified in order for the healthcare facility to receive reimburse-

ment. Certification is voluntary, but is becoming more generally accepted. One can be certified through the Amer- ican Registry of Radiologic Technologists or the Nuclear Medicine Certification Board.

Education Nuclear medicine technol-

ogy programs range in length from 1 to 4 years and lead to a certificate, an associate degree, or a bachelor's degree.

One-year certificate programs are typically for health professionals who already possess an associate or bachelor’s degree, especially radiologic technologists and diagnostic medical sonographers, but who wish to specialize in

nuclear medicine. The programs also attract medical technologists, registered nurses, and others who wish to change fields or specialize.

Program Admissions Those interested in this

field should take precollege math classes, including calcu- lus and statistics in high school. They should also take chemistry, biology, physics, and anatomy and physiology. Volunteering in a hospital to

gain experience working in this career is also recommend- ed.

Program Coursework

Courses cover the physical sciences, biological effects of radiation exposure, radiation protection and procedures, the use of radiopharmaceuticals, imaging techniques, and computer applications.

Things to Know

Nursing school graduates can move into this field with just one more year of training.

Technologists may advance to supervisory positions or to chief technologist with significant work experience.

Oregon Schools

Professional Degree Programs Oregon Institute of Technology

Additional Sources of Information Society of Nuclear Medicine 1850 Samuel Morse Drive Reston, VA 20190 (703) 708.9000 www.snm.org

http://www.snm.org/

Nurse

Nurses promote health, prevent disease, and help patients cope with

illness. A nurse’s level of education will determine responsibilities and

tasks.

What do Nurses do? There are three levels of nursing described here (please see individual sections under the following headings for more information):

Licensed Practical & Vocational Nurses LPNs and LVNs work under the supervision of

doctors and RNs to provide hands-on care to patients like taking a patient's temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and breathing rate or changing dress- ings, administering prescribed medications, starting IVs, inserting catheters, and helping patients dress, bathe, and eat. LPNs may also help deliver and care for babies.

Other duties of LPNs may include training and supervising nursing aids, evaluating and planning for nursing home residents’ care, and going to patients’ homes to help prepare meals and teach family members simple nursing tasks.

Registered Nurses

RNs may observe and record patients' symptoms, their response to treatment, help physicians give treatments and examinations, give medicines, or assist in surgery. RNs may specialize in several different areas. Registered nurses (RNs) can take more training to become nurse practitioners.

Nurse Practitioners NPs provide medical health care to individuals

and families in much the same way as do registered nurses, but because of their advanced training they are able to make more decisions and have more responsibility.

Nurse practitioners educate people about staying healthy, examine patients, prescribe medicines, give injections, and order laboratory or other tests. They diagnose and treat all types of illness, disease, and injuries. They refer patients to a doctor or hospital if necessary.

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Work Setting urses often work in hospitals, clinics, and other

health care buildings. Home health and public health nurses often travel to patients’ homes or other places. Nurses working in hospitals and nursing homes may work nights, weekends, or holidays to pro-

vide continuous patient care. Nurse Practitioners may be on call.

Nurses walk and stand for long periods and may lift or move patients or equipment. They must follow strict rules to keep from getting sick from diseases like hepatitis. They must also protect themselves from dangerous radiation, chemicals, and other hazards.

Education Practical nursing pro-

grams are about one year long and include both classroom study and practical experience caring for patients. Technical and vocational schools, community and junior colleges, colleges, universities, and high schools and hospitals offer practical nursing programs.

Associate degree in Nursing

(ADN). This program is offered at junior and community colleges and takes two years.

Bachelor of Science in Nurs- ing (BSN). These programs take four or five years and are the best route to a good job. BSN degrees are offered at colleges and universities.

Master’s Degree in Nursing

(MSN). One must have a

BSN to get into this program. Master’s degree programs prepare nurses to work as nurse practitioners, nurse educators, or nurse midwives.

Program Admissions Most practical nursing pro-

grams require a high school diploma but some accept students without a diploma. High school students interested in

nursing should take math and science courses, including algebra II or higher, biology and physical science, and also take English and social studies.

A RN license is required for admission to a nurse practitioner program.

Things to Know

There are more jobs for nurses than for any other health care occupation.

All states require nurses to complete an accredited nursing program and pass a national licensing examination to receive a nursing license. RNs must

renew their license every few years and some states require nurses to take additional classes.

With the proposed changes in state law and licensing requirements, students who want to become nurses should serious- ly consider taking a BSN program. Nurse practitioners must have an RN license then complete a one- or two-year graduate program which includes clinical experience.

* Please refer to the individual nursing sections for more information on each career.

Oregon Schools

Associate Degree/Certification Programs Blue Mountain Community College**

Central Oregon Community College** Chemeketa Community College**

Clackamas Community College** Clatsop Community College**

Columbia Gorge Community College**

Lane Community College** Linn-Benton Community College**

Mt Hood Community College** Portland Community College* Rogue Community College**

Southwestern Oregon Comm. College**

Treasure Valley Community College**

Umpqua Community College**

Professional Degree Programs

Concordia University***

Eastern Oregon University***

Oregon Health & Science University***

Oregon Institute of Technology*

Linfield College*

Southern Oregon University*

University of Portland***

*These schools offer RN programs only **These school offer both LPN and RN programs

***These schools offer both RN and NP programs

Additional Sources of Information National League for Nursing 61 Broadway, 33rd Floor New York, NY 10006 (212) 363.5555 (212) 812.0391 FAX www.nln.org

American Nurses Association 8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 400 Silver Spring, MD 20910 (301) 628.5000 (301) 628.5001 FAX www.nursingworld.org

Oregon Center for Nursing University of Portland Franz Hall, Room 334-D 5000 N. Willamette Blvd. Portland, OR 97203-5798 (503) 943.7150 (503) 943.7496 FAX www.oregoncenterfornursing.org

Oregon State Board of Nursing 17938 SW Upper Boones Ferry Road Portland, OR 97224-7012 (971) 673.0685 (971) 673.0684 FAX www.oregon.gov/OSBN

http://www.nln.org/

http://www.nursingworld.org/

http://www.oregoncenterfornursing.org/

http://www.oregon.gov/OSBN

Cascades East Area Health Education Center

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Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

Nursing assistants or nurse aides perform routine tasks in caring for

patients in hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities.

What do Nursing

Assistants do?

ursing assistants (CNAs) care for patients in hospi-

tals, nursing homes, and other care facilities.

Under the supervision of a nurse or other medical staff person, they perform routine tasks such as helping patients eat, bathe, and dress, walk or do other exercises and escort patients to examination rooms or other appointments.

Nursing aides may take temperature, pulse, and blood pressure readings, and apply basic skin care treatments. They also clean patient rooms, change bed linens, and re-stock supply rooms.

Work Setting ost full-time CNAs work 40 hours a week.

It is common for them to work evenings, nights, and weekends. Some aides are able to work part time.

CNAs spend many hours standing and walking. They have to guard against back injury as they lift or pull heavy objects such as equipment or patients who cannot move themselves. The work is often

stressful because there are many patients to care for and few nurse aides. Nursing aides must take proper steps to avoid infection and diseases such as hepatitis. They often have un- pleasant duties such as changing soiled bed linens, bathing patients, and emptying bed- pans. Despite this, many nursing assistants gain satisfaction from helping people in need.


Future Outlook In 2011there were 13,101

nursing aides working in Ore- gon, this number is projected to grow to 15,950 by 2018. In

2011 the average annual wage

in Oregon was $26,937.

Aptitudes and Skills CNAs need to work as part

of a team, follow instructions, and do routine tasks over and over. They should be tactful, patient, understanding, emotionally stable, and depend- able. They should have good communication skills and want to help people.

Hiring Nursing assistants/aides

work in hospitals, nursing homes, residential care facilities, and for temporary employment agencies.

Oregon certification is necessary to be employed in this state.

Education Many hospitals, nursing

homes, and community colleg-

es offer training programs that qualify the student to take the

state certification test. Some high schools and career centers offer nursing aide training.


Program Admissions

Although a high school diploma is not necessary to earn certification, helpful high school classes include English, speech and communication, general math, general science, biology, health and first aide.

Program Coursework The certification program

in Oregon is a minimum of 75 hours divided among classroom, labs, and clinical experience. The classes include basic nursing skills, personal care skills, and patient rights.

Things to Know Minimum education or

training is required for an entry level job like nursing assistant/aide, but the pay is low and advancement is unlikely without further education.

CNAs who hold a valid CNA 1 certification may complete an additional training

program to become a Level 2 nursing assistant or CNA 2.

Though not required, many employers are increasingly interested in hiring CNA 2s. Level 2 nursing assistants may focus their additional training in one of three areas: restora- tive care, acute care or de- mentia care.

CNA 1s can also obtain additional training/ authorization to become CMAs (Certified Medication Aides) which allows them to administer non-injectable medications.

Oregon Schools

Certification Programs Blue Mountain Community College

Caregiver Training Institute, LLC

Central Oregon Community College

Chemeketa Community College

Columbia Gorge Community College

Klamath Community College

Lane Community College Linn-Benton Community College

Mt. Hood Community College

Portland Community College Rogue Community College

Southwestern Oregon Community College Springdale Job Corps Center

Treasure Valley Community College

Umpqua Community College Wolf Creek Job Corps Center

Additional Sources of Information

Oregon Center for Nursing

University of Portland Franz Hall, Room 334-D 5000 N. Willamette Blvd. Portland, OR 97203-5798 (503) 943.7150 (503) 943.7496 FAX www.oregoncenterfornursing.org

http://www.oregoncenterfornursing.org/


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Licensed Practical & Vocational Nurse

Licensed practical & vocational nurses (LPNs & LVNs) work under the

supervision of doctors and registered nurses to provide hands-on care

to patients.

What do Licensed

Practical Nurs- es do?

icensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Licensed

Vocational Nurses (LVNs) work under the supervision of doctors and Registered Nurs- es to provide hands-on care to patients.

LPN/LVNs take a patient's temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and breathing rate. They change dress- ings, give alcohol rubs and enema treatments, insert catheters, and help patients dress, bathe, and eat. LPN/ LVNs may also help deliver and care for babies.

Other duties of LPN/ LVNs may include training and supervising nursing aids, and evaluating and planning for nursing home residents’ care.

Work Setting PNs and LVNs work in nursing homes, hospitals,

clinics, and home health agencies. They usually work 40 hours a week, although a few work part time. Sometimes these nurses must work nights, weekends, or holidays. The work may be strenuous: standing for long periods or lifting patients. LPNs may also do office tasks like keep patient records or make appointments

LPN/LVNs may be ex- posed to harmful chemicals and radiation. They may treat patients who have infectious diseases like AIDS and hepatitis. Their work is stressful because there is so much to do and because they work with patients who may be confused, angry, or stubborn.


Future Outlook Job openings for LPN/

LVNs grew much faster than average through 2018. Trained workers should be able to find jobs.

In 2011, there were 2,709

LPN/LVNs working in Ore-

gon, by 2018 that number is expected to grow to 3,172. The average wage for an LPN/ LVN in Oregon was $46,009 in 2011.

Aptitudes and Skills LPNs and LVNs need to

know how the human body works and how to care for injuries and treat diseases. They need to know the signs of disease and what treatments to

use. Nurses need to know biology, chemistry, psychology, physiology and the properties of drugs and how drugs react.

In addition to using their hands and arms, lifting and moving patients, and standing for long periods, LPN/LVNs need good communication skills. Because LPN/LVNs work closely with patients, they need to be caring and con- siderate and want to help their patients. They need the ability

to learn new tasks quickly. They must follow orders, work well under supervision, be emotionally stable and not eas- ily upset.


Hiring All 50 states require li-

censed practical nurses to graduate from an approved nursing program and pass a licensing examination. The National Council Licensing Board licenses LPNs.

In 2008, 25 percent of LPN/LVNs worked in hospitals, and 28 percent worked in nursing homes. Others worked in doctors' offices, clinics, home health agencies, schools, or government agencies.

Education

Practical nursing programs are about one year long and

include both classroom study and practical experience caring for patients. Technical and vocational schools, community and junior colleges, colleges, universities, and high schools and hospitals offer practical nursing programs.

Program Admissions Most practical nursing

programs require a high school diploma but some accept students without a diploma.

Program Coursework In the LPN program, stu-

dents learn basic nursing prin-

ciples and patient care. They take classes in anatomy, physiology, nutrition, first aid and study medical-surgical nursing, pediatric (child) nursing, and psychiatric nursing.

Things to Know Most LPN/LVN pro-

grams take about one year. Jobs in nursing homes are more common; there are not as many jobs available in hospitals. Hospitals are relying increasingly on CNAs to fill the position historically held by LPNs.

Oregon Schools

Associate Degree/Certification Programs Blue Mountain Community College

Carrington College Central Oregon Community College

Chemeketa Community College Clackamas Community College

Clatsop Community College

Columbia Gorge Community College Concorde Career College

Institute of Technology-Salem


Mt. Hood Community College Oregon Coast Community College

Pioneer Pacific College

Rogue Community College

Sumner College


Umpqua Community College

Additional Sources of Information National League for Nursing

61 Broadway, 33rd Floor New York, NY 10006 (800) 669.1656 (212) 812.0393 FAX www.nln.org

National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses 605 Poole Drive Gamer, NC 27529 (919) 779.0046 (919) 779.5642 FAX www.nflpn.org

http://www.nln.org/

http://www.nflpn.org/


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Nurse Practitioner

Nurse practitioners educate people about staying healthy, examine

patients, prescribe medicines, give injections, and order laboratory or

other tests.

What do Nurse Practitioners

do?

nurse practitioner (NP) is a registered nurse (RN) who

has advanced education and clinical training at the graduate (master’s) level in a health care specialty area. Today’s NPs are more educated and perform more procedures than at any time in their 41 year history. In 2004, there were 115,000 NPs working in the United States.

Nurse practitioners provide medical health care to individuals and families in much the same way as do nurses, but because of their advanced training they are able to make more decisions and have more responsibility

Nurse practitioners educate people about staying healthy, examine patients, prescribe medicines, give injections, and order laboratory or other tests.

They refer patients to a doctor or hospital if necessary.

Work Setting urse practitioners work in rural clinics, family prac-

tice offices, student health services, occupational health clinics, home health services, hospitals, migrant health clinics, and in prisons, as well as in primary care, mental health, pediatrics, women’s health, acute care, emergency care, and public health settings. Many nurse practitioners work with two or three other nurse practitioners in clinics and small offices. They may visit their patients' homes or see them in a nursing home or at a school. Nurse practitioners may work weekends or evenings or be on call.


Future Outlook In 2010, there were 1,955

licensed nurse practitioners

working in Oregon. The Amer- ican Academy of Nurse Practi- tioners (AANP) estimated that in the Far West region (Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Oregon, and Wash- ington), the average salary in

2010 was $99, 980.

Aptitudes and Skills Like other health care pro-

fessionals, nurse practitioners need to know how the human body works and how to diagnose and treat disease. Because they may work with people from different backgrounds who speak different languages, they need to have strong oral and written communication

skills, as well as good listening skills. Nurse practitioners should care for people and want to help them.

Hiring Nurse practitioners often

work in small towns or rural areas with few doctors and may be the only health care professional their patients see.

The Oregon State Board of Nursing licenses nurse practi-

tioners.

Education Nurse practitioners must

first have an RN license. Nurse practitioner programs usually require two years of advanced


study beyond the basic degree. Registered nurses who plan to become nurse practitioners are advised to have 3-5 years clinical experience before continuing their education.

Program Admissions High school students in-

terested in nursing should take math and science courses, in-

cluding algebra II or higher, biology and physical science, and also take English and social studies.

A Registered Nurse's license is required for admission to a nurse practitioner program.

Program Coursework

A nurse practitioner program may include courses in

advance practice nursing, population-based research, organization and financing of healthcare, a practicum, and coursework related to a specialty.

Things to Know

For more information re-

garding nursing programs, refer to the Registered Nurses section in this field guide.

Nurse Practitioner Specialties To Consider Nurse Practitioners may specialize in several different areas. These include:

Family Nurse Practitioner

Provides primary care to all family members

Geriatric Nurse Practitioner Focuses on care for adults over 55

Mental Health/Psychiatric Nurse

Practitioner Promotes the mental health of individuals, families and groups of all ages

Nurse Midwifery Focuses on pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, care of newborns, and the family planning and gynecological needs of women

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Provides primary care for family members from infancy to adolescence

Oregon Schools

Professional Degree Programs Oregon Health & Science University

University of Portland


The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners PO Box 12846 Austin, TX 78711 (512) 442.4262 (512) 442.6469 FAX www.aanp.org

http://www.aanp.org/


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Registered Nurse

Registered nurses (RNs) promote health, prevent disease, and help patients

cope with illness.

Work Setting urses work in a variety of settings (see below).

Nurses may work nights, weekends, or holidays to provide continuous patient care. In 2010, about 27.5 percent of nurses worked part time in Or- egon, but one in ten held more than one job.

Nurses walk and stand for long periods and may lift or

move patients or equipment. They must follow strict rules to

keep from getting sick from diseases like hepatitis. They must also protect themselves from dangerous radiation, chemicals, and other hazards.


Future Outlook There are more jobs for

nurses than for any other

health care occupation. In 2009, there were almost 2.6

million nurses working in the United States. More new jobs are expected to be created for RNs in coming years than for any other occupation. In 2011, there were 31,302 nurses working in Oregon, with jobs expected to grow by 3,000 through 2018. The average wage for nurses in Oregon was $76,417 in 2011.

The Varied World of Nursing

egistered Nurses observe, and record patients' symptoms and their response to treatment. They

help physicians give treatments and examinations, give medicines, and assist in surgery. Registered nurses may specialize in several different areas.

Hospital nurses provide bedside nursing care and

carry out physicians' orders for patient treatment. They supervise licensed practical nurses and nurse aides. Hospital nurses usually work in a specific area of the hospital such as surgery, maternity, pediatrics, emergency room, intensive care, or the cancer ward.

Office nurses work in physicians' offices and clinics,

and emergency medical centers. They get patients ready for examinations, help with the exams, give in-

jections and medicines, care for wounds, and assist with minor surgeries. Some office nurses do laboratory work, keep records, and do other clerical work.

Nursing home nurses work in nursing homes and

assisted care centers. They supervise licensed practical nurses and nurse aides, manage resident care, and do office work. Under the supervision of physicians, these nurses plan resident medical care and do patient care such as inserting IVs.

Home health nurses visit patients in their homes

to provide care as prescribed by a physician. They care for a broad range of patients including those recovering from illness or surgery and those who have terminal diseases

(continued on next page)


Aptitudes and Skills Nurses need to be emo-

tionally stable, mature, patient, sympathetic and want to help people because they often work with people who are suffering. Nurses need to be flexible and be ready to learn new things. They should have good communication skills and be able to see and understand oth-

ers' reactions and feelings. Nurses must be responsible and use good judgment. They must follow directions precise- ly and be able to know when to ask for help. They should be able to supervise other workers and work well with others.

Hiring All states require nurses to

graduate from an accredited nursing program and pass a national licensing examination to receive a nursing license. RNs must renew their license every few years and some States require nurses to take additional classes.

Most nurses work in hospitals, doctor's offices, and clinics. Others work in home health care agencies, nursing homes, temporary help agencies, schools, and government agencies. Nurses also work for social service agencies, reli- gious organizations, research facilities, insurance agencies,

and as private nurses for individuals or families.

Education There are two ways to earn a Registered Nurse's degree:

Associate degree in nursing (ADN). These programs are offered at junior and community colleges and take two to three years.

Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN). These programs take four or five years and are the best route to a good job. BSN degrees are offered at colleges and universities.

Note: Some colleges offer accelerated BSN programs for individuals who have already

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such as cancer. Home health nurses emphasize complete care for the patient and family. In addition to caring for the physical needs of the patient, they counsel and educate the patient and family on emotional and mental health and family relationships.

Public health nurses work to improve the overall

health of communities. They work in government and private agencies, clinics, school, and retirement

communities. They plan and carry out programs such as

health education, disease prevention, nutrition, and childcare. Public health nurses arrange immuniza- tion programs, as well as

blood pressure and cholesterol testing programs.

Occupational health nurses provide nursing

care to workers and customers at jobs and business- es. They give emergency care, write accident re- ports, and arrange for the patient to get more medical care if needed. Occupational health nurses offer health counseling, help with health examinations, and determine if the work site is safe.

Head nurses or Nurse supervisors are in

charge of nursing activities in a hospital, nursing home, or other facility. They plan work schedules and assignments for nurses and nurse aides. They train nurses, monitor patient care, and make sure patient records are being kept properly.


earned a bachelor’s degree or higher. Accelerated master’s degree programs are also available and take approximately three years to complete.

Program Admissions Admission to a RN pro-

gram is highly competitive. Usually two years of college courses in natural sciences,

social sciences, and arts and humanities are required.

Program Coursework All nursing programs in-

clude classroom instruction as well as supervised work in hospitals or other health care places. In addition to communication, English, writing, history, and mathematics, students study anatomy, physiology, microbiology, chemistry, nutrition, psychology, and nursing practice. They also gain clinical experience in pediatrics, psy- chiatry, maternity, and surgery.

Things to Know There are more jobs for

nurses than for any other health care occupation. For the best jobs and advancement opportunities, students are advised to complete a bachelor's degree program.

Oregon Schools

Professional Degree Programs Concordia University Eastern

Oregon University George

Fox University Linfield

College Oregon Health & Science University

Oregon Institute of Technology

Southern Oregon University

University of Portland Walla Walla College of Nursing

Associate Degree Programs

Blue Mountain Community College

Central Oregon Community College

Chemeketa Community College

Clackamas Community College

Clatsop Community College

Columbia Gorge Community College


Mt Hood Community College

Oregon Coast Community College Portland Community College

Rogue Community College

Southwestern Oregon Community College


Umpqua Community College

Additional Sources of Information National League for Nursing 61 Broadway, 33rd Floor New York, NY 10006 (800) 669.1656 www.nln.org

American Association of Colleges of Nursing 1 Dupont Circle NW, Suite 530 Washington DC 20036 (202) 463.6930 (202) 785.8320 FAX www.aacn.nche.edu

American Nurses Association 8515 Georgia Avenue, Suite 400 Silver Spring, MD 20910 (800) 274.4262 (301) 628.5001 FAX www.nursingworld.org

http://www.nln.org/

http://www.aacn.nche.edu/

http://www.nursingworld.org/


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Occupational Therapist

Occupational Therapists help people learn or re-learn the skills they need to

perform the tasks of daily life.

What do Occupational

Therapists do?

ccupational therapists help people learn or re-

learn the skills they need to perform the tasks of daily life.

Using special devices, machines, exercises, and computer software, they work with people who have physical, mental, or emotional disabilities to help them live and work independently.

Therapists analyze a patient's injury or disability and make a plan for treatment, that could include designing and building equipment needed to complete the treatment.

Work Setting ccupational therapists work in hospitals, re-

habilitation centers, schools, mental health facilities or in private homes. Those working for home health services often drive long distances. In schools, occupational therapists attend meetings and activities after school in addition to their work.


Future Outlook Job openings for occu-

pational therapists are projected to be higher than average through 2018 at an increase by 26 percent. In 2011, there were 963 occupational therapists working in Oregon, by 2018 that number is expected to rise to 1,137.

The average wage in Oregon in 2011 was

$72,121.

Aptitudes and Skills

An occupational therapist needs to be patient and

get along with all types of peo-

ple who have a variety of ill- nesses and disabilities. They need good communication skills in speaking, writing, reading, and listening.

Because they often must design a new device or a new way of doing something, occupational therapists need inge- nuity and imagination. They need to have good hand/eye coordination and have the skill to build and fix things. They should be able to learn new

skills and to use new technology.

Hiring Over one quarter of occu-

pational therapists work part time. All states require occupational therapists to be licensed.

Education Occupational Therapy de-

grees may be obtained at the

master’s or doctorate level. Some schools offer a combined entry level bachelor’s/master’s degree program. A baccalaure- ate degree must be earned before a student can be accepted into a doctoral program.


Program Admissions High school students

should take courses in biology, chemistry, physics, health, art and social sciences. Volunteer work in the health care field is also helpful.

Program Coursework Typical coursework in-

cludes classes in biology, physical science, and social and behavioral science. Students

learn occupational therapy theory and treatment skills. In addition, six months of supervised fieldwork is usually required.

Things to Know After graduating with a

master’s or doctoral degree or

above, applicants must pass the licensing examination in order to receive the title of registered occupational thera-

pist. Many colleges and universities offer a master's degree.

Oregon Schools

Professional Degree Programs Pacific University *

Additional Sources of Information American Occupational Therapy Association

4720 Montgomery Lane PO Box 31220 Bethesda, MD 20824-1220 (301) 652.2682 (301) 652.7711 FAX www.aota.org

*At this time, offers master’s level degree program only

http://www.aota.org/


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Occupational Therapist Assistant & Aide

Occupational therapist assistants help occupational therapists in providing

occupational therapy treatments and procedures. Occupational therapist

aides perform only delegated, selected, or routine tasks in specific

situations. These duties include preparing patient and treatment rooms.

What do Occupational

Therapist Assistants and Aides

do?

ccupational therapists assistants help clients

with rehabilitative activities and exercises outlined in a treatment plan developed in collaboration with an occupational therapist. Activities range from teaching the proper method of moving from a bed into a wheelchair to the best way to stretch and lim- ber the muscles of the hand.

Occupational therapist aides typically prepare materials and assemble equipment used during treatment. They are also responsible for a range of clerical tasks.

Work Setting he hours and days work vary by facility and

whether they are full time or part time. For example, many outpatient therapy offices and clinics have evening and weekend hours to coincide with patients’ schedules.


Future Outlook Employment is expected

to grow faster than average as occupational therapy services rise. Nationwide, jobs are projected to grow by 30 percent between 2008 and 2018. In 2011, there were 152 occupational therapist assistants and 21 aides. By 2018, there will be 176 assistants and 24 aides.

The 2011 average wage in Oregon for assistants was $51,882 and $31,065 for

aides.

Aptitudes and Skills

Occupational therapist assistants and aides need to

have a moderate degree of strength because of the physical exertion required to assist patients. For example, assistants and aides may need to lift patients. Constant kneeling, stooping, and standing for long periods also are part of the job.

Time management, written, and oral communication skills are very helpful in this career. Active listening and decision making are also skills necessary for success as an occupational therapy assistant or aide.

Hiring

Occupational therapist assistants and aides tend to work in hospitals, health practitioner offices, nursing care facilities, community care facilities, home healthcare facilities, individual and family services, and government agencies.

Certification is voluntary. However, forty States and the District of Columbia regulate the practice of occupational therapist assistants either by licensing, registration, or certification. Some States have ad-


ditional requirements for therapist assistants who work in schools or early intervention programs.

Education An associate degree from

an accredited academic program is generally required to qualify for occupational thera-

pist assistant jobs. In contrast, occupational therapist aides usually receive most of their training on the job.

Program Admissions

Applicants to occupational therapist assistant programs can improve their chances of

admission by taking high school courses in biology and health. Volunteer work in nursing care facilities, occupational or physical therapists' offices, or other healthcare settings is also beneficial.

Program Coursework The first year of study typical-

ly involves an introduction to

healthcare, basic medical ter-

minology, anatomy, and physiology. In the second

year, courses are more rigor-

ous and usually include occu-

pational therapy courses in areas such as mental health,

adult physical disabilities, ger-

ontology, and pediatrics. Stu- dents also must complete at least 16 weeks of supervised fieldwork in a clinic or community setting.

Things to Know Assistants and aides must

be responsible, patient, and willing to take directions and

work as part of a team. Fur- thermore, they should be caring and want to help people who are not able to help themselves.

With proper formal education, occupational therapist aides can become occupational therapist assistants.

Oregon Schools

Associate Degree Programs Linn-Benton Community College

Mt. Hood Community College

Additional Sources of Information American Occupational Therapy Association

4720 Montgomery Lane PO Box 31220 Bethesda, MD 20824-1220 (301) 652.2682 (301) 652.7711 FAX www.aota.org

http://www.aota.org/


O

O

Optician

Opticians prepare, fit, and sell corrective lenses and eyeglasses

according to optical prescriptions and customers’ preferences.

What do Opticians do?

pticians fit eyeglasses and contact lenses.

They take precise measurements of a patient's face and eyes.

Using prescriptions written by ophthalmologists or optometrists, opticians usually prepare work orders for technicians who grind and insert lenses, however, some opticians make the lenses themselves.

Opticians may specialize in fitting artificial eyes or covers for damaged eyes.

Work Setting pticians work in a small medical office or the op-

tical department of a store. They may work alone or with several other opticians and work 40 hours a week or more.


Future Outlook In 2010, there were about

934 opticians in Oregon, and by 2018 over 1,040 opticians

are projected to be employed in the state. The 2011 average wage was $35,954 per year. Nationwide, jobs are expected to increase at a faster than average rate through 2018.

Aptitudes and Skills Opticians do very precise

work and must pay careful attention to detail, and have good communications skills in

listening, speaking, and writing. Opticians use mathematics in measuring and in solving problems. They should know the principles of market- ing and how to explain and demonstrate a product.

Hiring Opticians must have long

term on-the-job training to gain the skills needed for this profes- sion. Those with postsecondary training have an advantage when seeking a job.

Education Many community colleges

and some colleges and universities offer opticianry programs. These are usually two- year associate degrees in oph- thalmic dispensing or optometric technology.

Program Admissions No special training or prep-

aration is required for admission to the optician program. High school classes in physics, anatomy, algebra, geometry, and mechanical drawing are good preparation.

Program Coursework

Optician training includes classes in optical mathematics, optical physics, and the use of precision measuring instru- ments and other machinery and tools.


Things to Know Many employers increas-

ingly prefer dispensing opticians to complete certification or graduate from an accredited 2-year associate’s degree program in opticianry; some large employers may provide an apprenticeship that may last

two years or longer. Twenty- two states license opticians; in the other states, opticians com-

plete training and work without a license. The American Board of Opticianry and the National Contact Lens Exam- iners offer certification exams. In some states, opticians must have a few months or a year of experience after graduating before taking the test.

Oregon Schools

Professional /Associate Degree Programs None

Additional Sources of Information Opticians Association of America 441 Carlisle Drive Herndon, VA 20170 (800) 433.8997 (703) 437.0727 FAX www.oaa.org

National Academy of Opticianry 8401 Corporate Drive, Suite 605 Landover, MD 20785 (800) 229.4828 (301) 577.3880 FAX www.nao.org

http://www.oaa.org/

http://www.nao.org/


O

O

Optometrist

Optometrists examine eyes and prescribe corrective lenses or treatment to

protect and improve vision.

What do Optometrists

do?

ptometrists provide care for the eyes. They

examine people's eyes to diagnose vision problems, and eye diseases. They prescribe glasses, and medicines. Optometrists sometimes provide care for people who have had eye surgery.

Optometrists may specialize in care of the elderly, children, people with visual impairment, prevention and treatment of eyestrain, work related injuries, or sports injuries.

Work Setting ptometrists work in private offices. Most optom-

etrists work full-time and may work weekends or evenings.


Future Outlook In 2011, there were about

375 optometrists working in Oregon. Average income was $92,418; new graduates earned about $53,000.-$55,000. Jobs are expected to reach 450 by

2018. Jobs are expected to grow to 24 percent, which is at a faster than average rate through 2018.

Aptitudes and Skills Optometrists need to know

how the human body works especially the eye and about drugs and medicines used to treat the eyes.

They should know mathe-

matics, how to use scientific methods to solve problems, pay careful attention to detail, notice small changes and use their hands and fingers to do detailed and precise work. They also need good communication skills.

Hiring In 2009, about 25 percent

of optometrists were self- employed, but a growing number work with another optometrist or in group practice.

Some work for ophthalmologists, hospitals, health maintenance organizations, or retail optical stores. A few are consultants.

Education The Doctor of Optometry

(OD) is a four-year graduate program.

Program Admissions A bachelor's degree or

higher with courses in English, math, physics, chemistry, and biology, among others are required for admittance to an optometry program. Students must pass the Optometry Ad- missions Test that covers academic and scientific areas.

Program Coursework Coursework includes clas-

ses and labs in health and visual sciences, clinical training in diagnoses and treatment of dis-


eases and problems of the eye, courses in pharmacology, op- tics, vision science, biochemis- try, and systemic disease.

Things to Know All states and the District

of Columbia require optometrists to be licensed. After graduating with a Doctor of

Optometry (OD) degree, optometrists must pass the written and clinical examinations.

Oregon Schools

Professional Degree Programs Pacific University


American Optometric Association

Educational Services

243 North Lindbergh Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63141-7881 (800) 365.2219 aoa.org

Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry 6110 Executive Blvd., Suite 420 Rockville, MD 20852 (301) 231.5944 (301) 770.1828 FAX www.opted.org

www.newslettersink.com

http://www.opted.org/

http://www.newslettersink.com/

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