Histotechnologist (35710)

Position purpose

The Histotechnologist's main responsibility is to perform all functions in the histology lab to include embedding, microtomy, staining, and filing.

Responsibilities/Duties/Functions/Tasks:

• Must be proficient in the following areas:

• Embedding

• Microtomy

• Routine Staining

• Special Staining/immunohistochemistry

• File slides, block and paperwork in alpha-numeric order

• Equipment quality control

• Perform

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (* = essential functions):

• To log required and regulated temperatures and reagents maintenance of all equipments as required by CLIA and other regulating agencies on the equipments' log with dates and initials.*

• To embed at least more than 20% of the total blocks accurately as instructed by the policies and procedures.*

• To prepare blocks for cutting including facing, cooling and printing of slides.*

• To cut at least more than 20% of the total blocks accurately as instructed by the policies and procedures.

• To prepare slides for staining.*

• To perform special staining and IHC (Immunohistochemistry) procedures as instructed by the reagents/equipments manufacturer's and laboratory policies and procedures.*

• To prepare slides for Quality Control.*

• To perform blocks and slides Quality Control.*

• To deliver slides for microscopic examination.*

• To receive, and log specimens on the laboratory computer program system for gross examination.*

• To perform gross examination of specimens as instructed by the policies and procedures in the presence of a Pathologist in the building or campus.*

• To diligently follow all lab procedures in the preparation of tissue samples for pathological testing.*

• To prepare slide preps specimens for microscopic within the same day of receipt.*

• To be aware of and strictly comply with all OSHA (safety) and CLIA (lab certification and registration) and HIPAA (patient confidentiality) regulations in the performance of all aspects of the position. *

• To efficiently organize, file and be able to locate all specimen blocks, containers and log reports and dispose them as necessary per CLIA regulations.*

• To appropriately maintain all solutions and stains used in the pathological testing process according to manufacturer's recommendations. *

• To operate, clean and sterilize laboratory equipment, glassware and instruments, ensuring a clean work area at all times. *

• To courteously, professionally and in a timely manner, respond to routine laboratory inquiries both internal and external, whether in writing, in person or over the phone. *

• To maintain an adequate supply of all items necessary for laboratory operations by maintaining an accurate and timely inventory and ordering supplies bi-weekly. *

• To continually update the laboratory manuals by staying abreast of new product/chemical and other new laboratory information and ensuring all updates are made in the manual and communicated appropriately.*

• To participate in continuing education through required meeting attendance, including in-service meetings and educational programs. *

• To participate in cross-training for other employees as requested.*

• To provide feedback to supervisors

• related duties as assigned.

• To provide feedback to supervisors regarding laboratory policies and procedures to ensure continual improvement of processes.

• To contribute to a fair and positive work environment by treating patients, peers, superiors, subordinates, vendors and all others with professionalism and respect.*

• To perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Qualifications

Education: HT(ASCP) or eligible required.

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Job Specifications (KSAs):

• Requires Associate Degree.

• Requires program trained or on-the-job trained through graduation from technical institute or college or as a result of more than one year experience as a Pathology Tech.

• Requires valid ASCP laboratory certification for HT.

• Requires maintaining ASCP certification by attending Continuing Medical education meetings, in-service meetings and educational programs.

• Requires knowledge of medical terminology and standard diagnostic laboratory protocols.

• Requires ability to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds.

• Requires visual acuity and normal color perception.

• Requires ability to stand for extended periods of time to access and operate diagnostic equipment.

• Requires ability to communicate clearly in person and on the phone, and establish/maintain cooperative relationships with physicians, staff and other customers.

• Requires ability to maintain confidentiality in strict adherence to HIPAA patient confidentiality regulations.

• Requires ability to interact in a consistently professional and courteous manner with co-workers, patients, physicians and all others with whom contact occurs in the workplace.

• Requires ability to read, understand and follow oral and/or written instructions in English.

Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in histology preferred.

Other Requirements: None

Performance Requirements:

• Must be proficient in histology

• Must be reliable

• Excellent communication skills

• Ability to work independently

• Ability to pay close attention to detail

• Problem solving/troubleshooting skills

• Ability to follow instructions/procedures

• Ability to communicate effectively with customers and co-workers.

• Ability to perform work activities in a team environment with open communication.

• Ability to maintain attention to detail and concentrate for extended periods of time.

• Ability to function in a fast-paced environment while under substantial time pressures and still maintain quality patient care.

Equipment Operated: Standard office equipment including computers, fax machines, copiers, printers, telephones, etc. Standard histology equipment including microtomes, embedding centers, tissue processors, stainers and cover slippers.

Work Environment: Position is in a well-lighted medical laboratory environment. Occasional evening and weekend work.

Physical Requirements: Must possess the manual dexterity to operate histology equipment including microtome and embedding center. Includes handling of sharps and chemicals. Stress can be triggered by multiple staff demands and deadlines.