Histotechnician

Summary:

Prepares histologic slides from human tissue sections for microscopic examination and diagnosis by Pathologist/Surgical Oncologist.

Responsibilities:

(80%)* Prepares sections of human tissues for microscopic examination and patient diagnosis, using techniques to gross (dissect tissue), embed (orient specimen in OCT media), 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 tissue onto glass slides), from surgical procedures in collaboration with the MOHS surgeon.

(10%)* Maintains laboratory through cleaning and sterilizing laboratory equipment, glassware, instruments, and workstation.

(5%)* Tracks all routine maintenance and quality controls performed.

(5%)* Monitors workflow to ensure all patient cases are complete for the day

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Exercises independent judgment in dealing with procedural and technical problems as needed to meet the needs of the clinic.

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 gross, embed, and properly freeze tissue specimens to be preserved for study by Pathologist/Surgical Oncologist.

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 CLIA, Joint Commission, State Regulations, HIPAA, Safety and OSHA Regulations.

Performs other duties as assigned

Certifications and Licensures:

HT - Histotechnician

Required Equivalent Experience - Must be Histotechnician (HT) certified or eligible for Board of Certification (BOC) by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) and certified within 12 months of hire.

Required Education:

Education: High School Diploma or GED

Other Information:

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING AND SKILLS:

Completion of a Histology program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) or eligible to be a Histology Technician Trainee and acquire competency in the areas of embedding, microtomy, grossing, and immunohistochemistry within 90 days of hire.

Knowledge of 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, coverslips, 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.

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.

Skill in liquid nitrogen handling and safety.

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.

Can 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 MidMichigan 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):
Other Comments:

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