Histology-Cytology Assistant

Job Title

To assist the Histology and Cytology Department in the preparation of tissue and cells for microscope pathology. Performs Histologic and Cytologic procedures as stated in the Histology and Cytology Procedure

Job Description

Penn Medicine is dedicated to our tripartite mission of providing the highest level of care to patients, conducting innovative research, and educating future leaders in the field of medicine. Working for this leading academic medical center means collaboration with top clinical, technical and business professionals across all disciplines. Today at Penn Medicine, someone will make a breakthrough. Someone will heal a heart, deliver hopeful news, and give comfort and reassurance. Our employees shape our future each day. Are you living your life's work?

Entity: Penn Medicine Doylestown Health

Department: Lab

Location: 595 West State Street, Doylestown Pa 18901

Hours: Full Time Days

Job Summary:

To assist the Histology and Cytology Department in the preparation of tissue and cells for microscope pathology. Performs Histologic and Cytologic procedures as stated in the Histology and Cytology Procedure

Accountabilities:

1. Accurately and legibly accessions specimens with the use of the computer. Assists pathologist with frozen sections. Follows slides through the H&E stainer and appropriately distributes slides to the pathologists.

a. Evaluates each specimen that enters the Pathology Department. Associate must be knowledgeable regarding fixation and criteria necessary to completely and accurately diagnose tissue pathology.

b. Follows established computer protocol as stated in the Histology Procedure Manual.

c. Correctly applies CPT charges to pathology specimens

d. Correctly and legibly labels specimen containers and appropriate tissue cassettes.

e. Correctly and legibly makes slides.

f. Adheres to specific safety precautions when handling specimens and tissue fixatives.

g. Able to perform the modified H&E stain and rapid diff-quik stain for frozen sections.

h. Follows established routine H&E staining as stated in the Histology Procedure Manual. Is able to perform basic troubleshooting to adjust stain density.

i. Able to coverslip (manual and automatic) slides with minimal air bubbles.

j. Utilized Cerebro to assign completed cases to correct pathologist in a timely manner

2. Safely disposes of pathological waste, keeps Histology and Cytology stocked. Follows specific safety precautions when handling, preparing and disposing of solutions for the department.

a. Follows established protocols on the disposal of tissues and fixatives.

b. Ensures histology and cytology supplies are stocked. Notifies appropriate individuals when inventory is low.

3. Assists in maintaining Histology and Cytology instrumentation.

a. Performs routine maintenance on appropriate Histology and Cytology instruments as stated in the Histology and Cytology Procedure Manuals.

b. Appropriately performs and documents daily filtering and weekly stain rotations.

c. Able to operate assigned instruments in Histology and Cytology. Notifies responsible individuals when problems arise with the instruments.

d. Prepares GYN and Non-GYN specimens in the absence of the Cytology Technologist

e. Files pathology and cytology slides in correct numerical order.

f. Able to retrieve slides and blocks for review or send-outs.

g. Follows established routine Papanicolaou, modified Papanicolaou, and rapid diff-quik staining, procedures stated in the Cytology Procedure Manual.

h. Able to coverslip with minimal air bubbles.

4. Promotes patient safety by compliance with Organizational/Departmental polices and procedures.

a. Maintains confidentiality of customers and associates at all times.

b. Timely completion of yearly competencies, mandatory job requirements (RAHE, Fire/Safety CE, BLS, background clearance, fingerprinting, etc.) and continuing education.

c. Keeps abreast of changes and exhibits a supportive professional attitude.

d. Keeps abreast of and complies with contents in Laboratory Manual, DH Associate Manual, Infection Control Manual, Chemical/Safety Manual, Computer and each Departmental policy and procedure manuals.

e. Associate is able to admit errors and accepts responsibility for actions.

f. Associate assists in training/orientation of lab associates and students.

g. Associate participates in proficiency testing.

h. Associate has knowledge of Performance Improvement initiatives.

i. Associate complies with dress code of department.

Performs duties in accordance with Penn Medicine and entity values, policies, and procedures

Other duties as assigned to support the unit, department, entity, and health system organization

Qualifications:

• HS Diploma

We believe that the best care for our patients starts with the best care for our employees. Our employee benefits programs help our employees get healthy and stay healthy. We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits program that includes one of the finest prepaid tuition assistance programs in the region. Penn Medicine employees are actively engaged and committed to our mission. Together we will continue to make medical advances that help people live longer, healthier lives. Live Your Life's Work

We are an Equal Opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, familial status, genetic information, domestic or sexual violence victim status, citizenship status, military status, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable law.