Position Overview:
The Cytology Specialist is responsible for the preparation and microscopic analysis of cytology samples. This role may require flexibility to work at various Mercyhealth locations and to cover alternate shifts, weekends, and holidays as necessary to ensure service continuity. Additional responsibilities and projects may be assigned as needed.

Key Responsibilities:
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Utilize the laboratory information system to manage sample reception, order necessary tests, respond to inquiries from nursing and medical staff, document quality control measures, and generate required reports.

Verify the accuracy of patient sample identification before processing; assess specimen quality and recognize when samples are unsuitable. Maintain documentation regarding specimen quality.

Conduct microscopic evaluations of gynecological and non-gynecological cytology specimens. Screen cytological samples for abnormalities and determine the need for further review by a pathologist. Record interpretations of each screened case in the laboratory information system. Identify when additional slides or cell blocks require processing.

Assist radiologists with fine needle aspiration (FNA) specimen collection as needed; support pathologists in the staining of FNA slides and evaluation of specimen adequacy.

Perform the duties of a cytology assistant when required, including the preparation and staining of gynecological and non-gynecological specimens.

Implement quality control procedures for all reagents, methodologies, and instruments in accordance with policy and regulatory standards; document activities as per established protocols.

Oversee the quality assurance program; ensure that reagents, stains, and chemicals are properly labeled (e.g., receipt date, expiration date, etc.).

Maintain an organized filing system and records for slides.

Conduct daily preventative maintenance on laboratory equipment.

Coordinate workflow with team members to manage workload within designated turnaround times. Prioritize the processing of non-gynecological, FNA, send-out, and gynecological specimens to ensure timely completion and reporting.

Perform laboratory testing procedures utilizing various methods; communicate with physicians, nurses, support staff, and external clients regarding specimen collection requirements and sample handling.

This includes responding to telephone inquiries.

Select and review quality assurance cases and additional high-risk cases as necessary.

Prepare chemical reagents and stains needed for testing.

Route shared specimen samples to other areas as required for the timely completion of all testing.

Monitor supplies, documenting according to departmental policy and reviewing expiration dates, storage conditions, stock rotation, and taking corrective actions when necessary.

Maintain an inventory of consumables, reagents, and supplies.

Engage in continuing education activities throughout the year. Successfully complete proficiency testing programs annually as part of ongoing competency requirements.

Document the total number of slides reviewed daily and the hours spent screening within a 24-hour period.

Culture of Excellence Behavior Expectations:

To excel in this role, candidates should demonstrate the following behavioral expectations:

Quality: Adhere to policies and procedures; adapt to and manage changes in the work environment; demonstrate accuracy and thoroughness with attention to detail; seek opportunities to enhance quality; apply feedback to improve performance; manage time effectively to achieve organizational objectives.

Service: Respond promptly to service requests; follow Mercyhealth's service standards; fulfill commitments; respect confidentiality and security agreements; show sensitivity to cultural differences; communicate effectively with partners; consider system-wide processes and functions.

Partnership: Commit to the Mission of Mercyhealth and the Culture of Excellence through all actions; exhibit objectivity and openness to others' perspectives; engage actively in daily work; provide and welcome constructive feedback; propose suggestions for improvement; embrace teamwork and support positive change while valuing individuals.

Cost Management: Conserve organizational resources; understand fiscal responsibilities; operate within approved budgets; develop and implement cost-saving measures; contribute to profitability and revenue.

Education and Experience:

Graduate from an accredited Cytotechnology program.

Certification and Licensure:

ASCP Certification or equivalent required.

Participation in and successful completion of CMS-approved cytology proficiency testing programs in accordance with CLIA regulations is mandatory.

Skills and Abilities:

N/A

Special Physical Demands:

The special physical demands are considered essential job functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; use hands to manipulate objects; and may occasionally walk, sit, and reach with hands and arms. The employee may need to reach overhead or bend to retrieve items. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required for this position include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Level of Supervision:

Must be capable of working independently with minimal supervision.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

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