Pathology Assistant

Responsibility in the preparation of surgically removed samples which will be processed by the Pathologist during the Gross examination and later sent to the Histology Reference Lab for processing.

Prepare cassettes with the tissue from the Gross examination.

File Blocks and slides.

Handle surgically removed body parts and amputations for gross examination, processing and disposition.

Handle bookkeeping, coding and billing for the Pathology Department.

Specific knowledge of Pathological Medical Terminology.

Work in the environment of formalin, tissue biopsy fixative fluid, blood and human tissue.

Send reports to Clinician offices, Hospitals and Clinics.

Manage and maintain records and files pertaining to Pathology.

Track Samples that have been subpoenaed by the Courts.

Assist the Pathologist with the equipment and utensils when he performs the Frozen Section.

Help maintain and clean the equipment including the Cryostat, Frozen Section, used in Pathology and keep it in optimum condition and working properly.

Notify and contact Pathology equipment maintenance companies in the event of malfunction.

Inventory, order and maintain adequate supplies for the proper functioning of the department.

Retention and proper disposal of specimens removed at surgery and processed by Pathology.

Proper handling of records, tissue blocks and slides and reports given to Recall Storage.

Prepare specimens and shipments to be sent for Special Stains to out of state Reference Laboratories or to Consultations.

Communication Skills

Reading, writing and verbal skills must include the ability to:

a. Understand and be understood when speaking to Physicians and Surgeons.

b. Understand and follow directives and meet job requirements.

c. Communicate effectively with clients and co-workers.

d. Be able to chart, file, fax, and maintain records and reports accurately, including the ability to briefly, succinctly, and legibly record information and documentation of all steps when working with logs and patient information.

Working Conditions

Hazards are minimal but include chemical, including toners and solvents; Biological, including Blood borne Pathogens; and physical, including electrical equipment.

Be able to handle surgically removed body parts and amputations for shipment.

Physical Demands

Light work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force frequently to move objects. Requires walking or standing to a significant degree and requires sitting a minimal amount of time.

Environmental Conditions

Inside: Protection from weather conditions but not necessarily from temperature changes.

Subject to exposure to infectious and contagious diseases.

Subject to exposure to blood borne pathogens.

Subject to exposure to hazardous anesthetic agents, body fluids, and wastes.

Subject to hazards of flammable and explosive gases.

Reasoning Development

Be able to apply principles of rational systems to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Interpret and direct a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagrammatic or schedule form.

Language Development

Reading: Read and understand drawing, instructions, manuals, etc.

Writing: Be able to write reports with proper format, grammar and using all parts of speech.

Speaking: Be able to speak with poise, voice control, and confidence, using correct English and well-modulated voice.

Relationships to Data, People and Things

Data: Coordinating: Determining time, place and sequence of operations or actions to be taken on the basis of analysis of data; executing determination of and/or reporting on events.

People: Speaking-Signaling: Talking with and/or people to convey or exchange information. Includes giving instructions and/or directions to helpers, assistants on events.

Things: Handling: Using body members and/or special devices to work move or carry objects or materials.

Qualifications

Analyzing Information, attention to detail, Hospital Environment, good communication skills, good organization.

Education

High School graduate or equivalent, no license required.