Laboratory - Pathology Assistant

Pathologist's Assistant

Integrates knowledge, theory, and practice to properly execute procedures in assigned areas of the laboratory. With advanced training and education, maintains competence in all practices to perform pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic procedures on biological specimens to aid healthcare providers in the diagnosis, treatment, monitoring, and prevention of disease. May be responsible for specimen/material receipt, preparation, and archival/retrieval, as well as validation testing and problem troubleshooting, as defined by department policies and procedures. As a professional member of the laboratory team, works cooperatively with physicians, clients, and staff to facilitate superior patient care and to represent the laboratory positively by acting with courtesy, dignity, respect, and professionalism. Receives, verifies acceptability, and accessions specimens according to department policies. Processes specimens for testing, interpretation, and submission to other laboratories as needed. Performs accurate data entry throughout the testing, interpretation, and reporting processes. Follows department policies and procedures regarding positive patient identification throughout the testing, interpretation, and reporting processes. Maintains equipment and facilities in accordance with policies and procedures. Prepares, maintains, stocks, and orders supplies and reagents as needed. Performs gross dissection and description of pathology specimens of all types and complexities. Performs, or assists with, intra-procedural consultations including gross examinations and frozen sectioning. Performs all aspects of post-mortem examinations including verifying all required documentation, reviewing and summarizing clinical history, performing dissection, selecting and submitting tissue for microscopic evaluation, and documenting gross findings. Performs ancillary processes associated with gross and post-mortem examinations including decalcification, photography, and x-ray imaging. Manages pathology materials including storage, retrieval, and disposal of tissue and chemical waste. As subject matter experts, audits accessioning and coding, makes corrections as needed, and provides constructive feedback for improvement to accessioners and lab assistants. Troubleshoots problems and reports findings to laboratory leadership. Participates in compliance efforts and completes compliance-related processes and documentation. Participates in validation and implementation of new testing, methodologies, and/or platforms. Completes quality control processes with appropriate documentation. Supports the laboratory as needed in other functions within the scope of regulation, training, and practice.