Histotechnologist

Job description

Preparation, processing, embedding and microtomy:
• Prepares specimens for embedding, microtomy, and staining following biohazard, chemical hygiene and departmental procedures.
• Embeds processed tissue in paraffin, orienting specimens correctly and insuring that cassettes are properly labeled by checking accuracy with histology work lists.
• Embeds and following protocols for proper orientation.
• Selects appropriate specimens and solutions for decalcification process, accurately determining decalcification endpoint to minimize histologic distortion.
• Scans paraffin block to print labeled slides and performs rapid check for conformity of slide and block label.
• Performs microtomy on paraffin embedded tissue per departmental procedures, evaluating tissue for completeness of processing and implementing immediate reprocessing procedures as required.
• Prioritizes specimens and seeks assistance when delays are incurred, to meet established deadlines.
• Follows established lab protocols concerning safety issues, demonstrating knowledge by using appropriate PPE and handling and storage of specimens accordingly.
• Communicates effectively with all customers including physicians, nurses, coworkers, and outside clients.
• Communicates clearly promoting excellent customer service and teamwork.

Staining and slide preparation:
• Uses automated or manual methods to perform routine and special stains.
• Reviews slides for adequate staining following written procedures, comparing with positive and/or negative controls.
• Coverslips manually and using the automated equipment.
• Reconciles finished slides with the work lists and/or LIS following up on discrepancies, documenting unresolved discrepancies and reporting them to lead personnel.
• Organizes slides and ensures that they are delivered to the appropriate Pathology staff or faculty.
• Prepares reagents as needed, and evaluates suitability of reagents, stains and solutions, maintaining quality control records. Prepares buffers and fixatives.
• Maintains stains and solutions on the automated staining instrument.
• Maintains all required documentation in all aspects of laboratory function.

Other Duties as Assigned
• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Biological science and one year of experience in a histology laboratory and HT/HTL (ASCP) certification within 90 days of hire; OR
• 2 years of experience performing embedding, microtomy and histologic staining; preparing reagents, and stains, and performing other related tasks, and HT/HTL (ASCP) certification within 90 days; OR
• Completion of a certified histotechnology training program and one year of training and experience in a clinical histology laboratory and HT/HTL (ASCP) certification within 90 days.

Job Related Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Competencies):
• General knowledge of laboratory terminology
• Skill in handling laboratory specimens, ensuring their completeness and documentation of same.
• Skill in using the hospital and laboratory computer systems.
• Ability and willingness to follow written and oral instructions accurately.
• Ability to recognize and initiate procedures and policies to improve work flow and accuracy.
• Ability to demonstrate performance of job duties to trainees
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with a variety of clients, including physicians, nurses, pathology employees, Material Transportation employees, outside customers, and maintain a customer service focus at all times.
• Ability to work independently within established guidelines, to adjust to rapidly changing priorities, to communicate and work effectively within a group.
• Experience in immunohistochemistry and neuromuscle processing preferred