Histotechnologist

Summary

This position works under the direct supervision of the histology section head assisting with coordinating the completion of the daily workload in histology. Responsibilities include CoPath data entry, routine and special testing on biological specimens, immunohistochemistry procedures, assistance to the pathologists in the gross examination room as necessary, preparation of biologic specimens for send out to consultation laboratories, and equipment maintenance, as well as any duties deemed necessary by the histology section head.


Responsibilities

(50%)*Prepares sections of human tissue for microscopic examination and patient diagnosis, using techniques to embed (orient specimen in paraffin block), section (cut thin sections of tissue), stain (enhance contrast of tissue and highlight specific features of interest with routine hematoxylin and eosin stains), and mount tissue (adhere onto glass slides), from surgical procedures.

(25%)*Maintains laboratory equipment and tracks all routine maintenance and quality controls.

(25%)*Operates, cleans, and sterilizes laboratory equipment, glassware, instruments, and workstation.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Exercises independent judgment in dealing with procedural and technical problems.

Examines slides and/or blocks to ensure tissue preparation is meeting laboratory requirements.

Trains or directs Laboratory Assistants engaged in laboratory testing and processing techniques.

Performs recuts and additional stains including special and immunohistochemistry stains, as requested by a Pathologist.

Operates laboratory equipment to fix, dehydrate, and infiltrate with wax, tissue specimens to be preserved for study by Pathologist.

Labels requisitions, specimen containers, cassettes and/or slides and affixes coverslip to slides.

Files, retrieves, and distributes blocks, slides, and pathology reports.

Disposes of hazardous chemical waste per regulatory guidelines.

Maintains strictest confidentiality.

Complies with all State, Federal, professional regulations as well as company and departmental rules, polices, and procedural manuals.

Adherence to CAP, CLIA, State Regulations, HIPAA, Safety and OSHA Regulations.

Performs other duties as assigned.


Certifications and Licensures

Credential: HTL: Histotechnologist ASCP

Equivalent Experience: HTL Certified or eligible for Board of Certification (BOC) by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP), with certification within 6 months of hire.

Qualification Source:

Essential: true

Required Education

Education: BACHELORS DEGREE

Equivalent Experience: Bachelor's Degree in the field of Laboratory Science or equivalent under the 1988 Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) guidelines of high complexity testing.

Education Specialization:

Essential: true

Other Information

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING AND SKILLS:

Completion of a Histology program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) or minimum of one (1) year experience as a Histology Technician Trainee and competent in the areas of fixation, embedding/microtomy, processing, staining, and laboratory operations.

Computers, computer programs, information system(s), scanners, forceps, rulers, tissue dyes, scalpel or razor blades, microtomes, cryostats, water baths, slide rack, tissue processors, drying ovens, automatic stainers, cover slippers, and personal protective equipment.

Knowledge of CLIA regulations regarding proficiency testing, quality assurance and quality control.

Knowledge of laboratory policies and procedures, equipment, and testing to monitor control checks.

Knowledge of medical terminology to communicate with laboratory staff. Page 3 of 3

Knowledge of English grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

Skill in using computer programs and applications.

Skill in performing a full range of laboratory tests and operating a variety of laboratory instrumentation and equipment.

Ability to listen, read, understand, and follow oral, and written instruction.

Ability to communicate clearly and concisely.

Ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with employees, physicians, vendors, clients, and external agencies

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS AND TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:

Exposure to stressful situations, including those involving public contact, as well as, trauma, grief and death.

Able to wear personal protective equipment that includes latex materials or appropriate substitute if required for your position.

Is able to move freely about facility with or without an assisted device and must be able to perform the functions of the job as outlined in the job description.

Overall vision and hearing is necessary with or without assisted device(s).

Frequently required to sit/stand/walk for long periods of time. May require frequent postural changes such as stooping, kneeling or crouching.

Some exposure to blood borne pathogens and other potentially infectious material. Must follow MyMichigan Health bloodborne pathogen and TB testing as required.

Ability to handle multiple tasks, get along with others, work independently, regular and predictable attendance and ability to stay awake.

Overall dexterity is required including handling, reaching, grasping, fingering and feeling. May require repetition of these movements on a regular to frequent basis.

Physical Demand Level:Light.Must be able to occasionally (0-33% of the workday) lift or carry 11-20 lbs., frequently (34-66% of the workday) 10 lbs. and or Walk/Stand/Push/Pull of Arm/Leg controls.


Equivalent Experience and Other Comments (Education)

Education: BACHELORS DEGREE

Equivalent Experience: Bachelor's Degree in the field of Laboratory Science or equivalent under the 1988 Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) guidelines of high complexity testing.

Education Specialization:

Essential: true

Other Comments

Credential: HTL: Histotechnologist ASCP

Equivalent Experience: HTL Certified or eligible for Board of Certification (BOC) by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP), with certification within 6 months of hire.

Qualification Source:

Essential: true