HISTOTECH

Job Description Summary

Under direct supervision, preparation of laboratory specimens for microscopic evaluation by the Pathologist through the use of microtomy, special staining, histochemistry and other appropriate techniques.

Job Description

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Education - Preferred

High School Diploma or GED preferred
Some College preferred
Associate Degree in a Science preferred

Minimum Work Experience

Up to two years directly related work experience

Required Certifications

HTL or HT (ASCP) - Histotechnologist or Histotechnician. License is required within 6 months from the date of hire.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Essential functions are those tasks, duties and responsibilities that comprise the means of accomplishing the job's purpose and objectives. Essential functions are critical or fundamental to the performance of the job. They are the major functions that the person in the job is held accountable for. Following are the essential functions of the job.

1 - Under supervision prepares specimen using the appropriate technique required to produce an acceptable sample for evaluation by the Pathologist.

a - Embeds tissue with correct and proper tissue identification.

b - Embeds tissue with proper orientation

c - Cuts tissue to appropriate level and size for diagnostic purposes.

d - Reprocesses tissue if required. Assures that appropriate protocol is followed.

e - Always uses appropriate stain required for sample being tested.

f - Performs special stains according to established standards.

2 - Follows established procedures for histology quality control and reports discrepancies to the Pathology Manager

a - Performs quality control procedures according to established protocol.

b - Will visually review representative samples and document.

c - Appropriately notifies supervisor of discrepant QC results.

3 - Performs scheduled and as needed maintenance on equipment routinely used in specimen preparation.

a - Consistently performs and documents maintenance on equipment.

b - Documents all maintenance as performed.

c - Notifies supervisor of problems that occur.

4 - Under supervision prepares cytology specimens to include:

a - Correct specimen registration

b - Slide preparation

c - Performing equipment maintenance on related instruments

5 - Complies with established laboratory and Hospital policies for Universal Precautions and safety procedures.

a - When handling blood and/or body fluids, Universal Precaution procedures will be followed in order to minimize exposure to infectious diseases. Safety policies and procedures will be followed when using chemicals.

b - Will wear lab coats, gloves and protective devices as required when handling specimens.

c - Will follow safety policies for dress.

d - Will follow safety policies when using chemicals.

e - Will report any safety hazards to the appropriate supervisor.

f - Will use protective barrier equipment as required.

g - Will disinfect and clean work benches/areas according to established protocol.

h - Will properly dispose of contaminated and hazardous waste materials.

6 - Technology – Embraces technological solutions to work processes and practices.

7 - Safety Awareness – Fosters a “Culture of Safety” through personal ownership and commitment to a safe environment.

a - Adheres to all safety related procedures in the department.

b - Readily identifies and reports any unsafe or potentially unsafe condition that could compromise safe patient care.

c - Communicates ideas as to areas that would improve safe patient care or a safer work environment.

8 - Reports to workstation/assignment on schedule, ready to work and works their entire work schedule unless absence/tardiness/leaving work early is pre-approved by their manager. Any unapproved absence/tardiness/leaving work early will be considered an occurrence (as defined by Human Resources policies VII-D V7 and VIIIB V8, respectively. 0-1 occurrences in a calendar year- consistently exceeds expectations, 2-3 occurrences in a calendar year- consistently meets/sometimes exceeds expectations, 4-5 occurrences in a calendar year- consistently meets expectations, 1 corrective action in a calendar year- developmental/needs improvement, and >1 corrective action in a calendar year- consistently does not meet standards.

Technology and Learning

a - Participates in continued learning and possess a willingness and ability to learn and utilize new technology and procedures that continue to develop in their role and throughout the organization.

b - Embraces technological advances that allow us to communicate information effectively and efficiently based on role.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Note: Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

General Activity - Frequent Standing/Walking Required, No Driving

Motion - Frequent Activity Required-pushing, pulling, lifting, bending

Motor Skills - Use of hands required, Use of feet required

Weight/Force - Light lifting required (<25lbs)

Body Fluid Exposure - Yes