Job Summary
Histology Technologist prepares sections of body tissues for microscopic examination by a pathologist. Working closely with the pathologist processes tissue removed during surgery and autopsy. The tissues are processed through chemical fixation, embedded in paraffin, cut into very thin sections, mounted on slides and stained with special dyes to make cellular details visible microscopically. Performs QC procedures and routine maintenance, according to established policies and procedures. Performs gross dissection. Manages unexpected situations in the Histology Laboratory, such as solving technical or instrument problems, understanding the underlying health and disease causes of unusual test results, and evaluating new laboratory techniques and procedures.
Responsibilities
Receives, Cuts, Mounts, and Prepares Specimens
Possesses a working knowledge of lab computer system to perform tasks and documentation efficiently. Matches specimens, labels, and surgical requests accurately. Assigns case ID to specimen, ensuring correct labeling. Appropriately labels cassettes for cases. Participates in OR specimen pickup as assigned. Demonstrates accuracy to orientation of tissues. Demonstrates accuracy by leaving slide margins free of tissue. Demonstrates accuracy in filing slides and blocks for rapid retrieval as needed. Appropriately identifies slide and cassette case numbers. Ensures that slides are free of tissue and/or bacterial contamination. Identifies the need for additional fixation of improperly/inadequately fixed tissues and reprocesses without being asked. Demonstrates accuracy in preparing body fluids for cellblocks. Uses appropriate technique in slide preparation (ie thin prep, cytospin). Prepares tissues for transfer to a reference lab and completes documentation accutately and completely as established policy. Participates in rotation of assignments within department. Performs manual stains efficiently, accurately, with acceptable quality without repetition due to technique.
Performs Gross Dissection
Confirms actual presence, integrity and validity of specimen. Determines appropriate tissue section(s) to process. Performs high complexity gross examination of small surgical specimens and reports detailed appearance through the dictation process. Color-codes samples submitted from same patient/tissue to distinguish as unique sampling areas, including small tissues and/or tissue margins. The gross dictation accurately correlates with the microscopic findings to assist the pathologist in rendering a diagnosis. Handles delicate tissue in a manner that does not crush or destroy the tissue during transfer to tissue cassette. Maintains clean and organized gross station.
lmmunohistochemical Stains
Demonstrates proficiency with immuno instrumentation. Performs stains efficiently, accurately, with acceptable quality without repetition due to technique. Solves technical and instrument problems, including but not limited to, instrument malfunctions, antibody retrieval problems, reagent issues. Performs Quality Control per policy. Anticipates planned power outages and ensures uninterrupted power supply is functional to prevent loss of staining run. Performs preventative maintenance as required by manufacturer.
Instrument Operation and Maintenance
Demonstrates accuracy in placing tissues on tissue processors and programs instrument in accordance with established protocol. Demonstrates accuracy in cutting frozen sections on the cryostat. Meets : Works quickly under pressure to deliver results while the patient is in surgery. Performs comfortably with equipment that requires careful monitoring such as microtome knives. Performs preventative maintenance as required by manufacturer ensuring instruments are maintained and in good working order so that turnaround time is not negatively impacted. Demonstrates proficiency with all instrumentation. Anticipates planned power outages and programs tissue processor to be idle during power outage. Maintains supply inventory to ensure that service is not interrupted.
Performs Other Duties as Required
Attends mandatory in-services, staff meetings, and actively participates in self-education. Completes all required competency assessments on time. Maintains required job knowledge (e.g. licensure and credentials, continuing education etc.). Performs other duties as required.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Medium Work: Frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 lbs with a maximum lifting of 50 lbs.
Education
- Bachelor's Degree (Required)
- Post High School Diploma or Certificate Program (Required)
Credentials
Work Schedule: Days
Status: Full Time Regular 1.0
Location: Mon Medical Center Main Campus
Location of Job: WV:Morgantown:Mon Medical Center
Talent Acquisition Specialist: Beth A. Isner [email protected]
