Histology Technician I

J  o  b    D  e  s  c  r  i  p  t  i  o  n

          Joy                         Care                      Competence                    Respect

Position Summary

Performs laboratory procedures according to established and approved protocols. Functions under the technical supervision of a technologist, manager, or laboratory director. Assists the Pathologist in the preparation of frozen section slides, fine needle aspirations, needle biopsies and the gross examination of tissue specimens. Prepares microscopic slides of tissues and cytology specimens for review and diagnosis by the Pathologist. Performs all routine, histo-chemical and immuno-cytochemical staining of tissue slides in accordance with standard procedures. Follows established procedures for collecting and processing biological specimens for analysis. Recognizes unexpected results and instrument malfunction and takes appropriate action. Provides laboratory information to authorized sources. Demonstrates laboratory technical skills to other laboratory colleagues.

High School Diploma or GED required.

Associate’s degree with strong science emphasis and one year histopathology experience, or completion of National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) accredited histotechnology program  or high school education with two years histopathology experience preferred.

No experience required

Certification with either the Board of Registry of American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) or National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS)or eligibility. Required to become registered within one year of accepting position.

Five years’ experience may be considered in lieu of certification/registration.

Demonstrates a high commitment to quality

Strong verbal communication and listening skills

Ability to work with tight timelines and meet deadlines

Performs work independently with minimal supervision.

Maintains a high degree of professionalism and ability to maintain composure under pressure.

Demonstrates high level problem-solving skills.

Prepare surgical specimens and assist at gross dissection.

Embeds surgical sections into paraffin blocks.

Performs Microtomy cutting of paraffin blocks.

Performs routine H & E staining and cover slipping of slides, special stains, immunoperoxidase stains, frozen sections and special procedures.

Prepares charges for send-outs, clinics, outpatients, special stains and inpatients.

Prepares blocks, tissues and slides for outside and inside consultation.

Assists pathologist in handling and disposing of post-mortem specimens.

Monitors inventory of supplies and orders when necessary.

Assists in the care and maintenance of equipment and supplies.

Possess the information, skill, and understanding of the work to be performed.  Actively participates in continuing education opportunities and maintains certifications, licensure as appropriate.

Reduces the risk of healthcare acquired infections through compliance with current CDC hand hygiene guidelines and facility policies including the wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), if applicable.  Utilizes standard precautions during patient contact and when handling contaminated materials.  Demonstrates compliance with National Patient Safety Goals.

Complies with all standards, policies and procedures including dress code, attendance and punctuality.  Attends required in-services and meetings and completes all mandatory competencies by deadline.  Commits to keeping all patient, student or colleague information confidential and maintains excellent interpersonal communication with the health care team colleagues.

Emphasizes a holistic approach to patient care-attending to body, mind, and spirit while upholding ethical principles with patient care and all other aspects of work.  Actively involves the patient and family in decisions about care.  Promotes quality care by participating in organizational councils/committees and/or support of related process.  Documents services provided to patients in the electronic medical record in accordance with policy and requirements. 

The purpose of this job description is to provide a summary of the major responsibilities performed by colleagues in this position. Colleagues may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this job description.  Variances in job duties performed may exist between facilities, and colleagues may perform other related duties as assigned to meet the needs of the organization.

PHYSICAL, MENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical, Mental and Environmental Requirements Category:

Allied Health

Standing

X

Walking

X

Sitting

X

Lifting

X

50 lbs

Carrying

X

50 lbs

Pushing

X

50 lbs

Pulling

X

50 lbs

Climbing

X

Balancing

X

Stooping

X

Kneeling

X

Crouching

X

Crawling

X

Reaching

X

Use of Hands/Dexterity

X

Talking

X

Hearing

X

Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination

X

Extreme Cold

X

Extreme Heat

X

Humid

X

Wet

X

Noise

X

Hazards

X

Temperature Change

X

Positions in this category may experience a temperature change in his/her work environment.

Atmospheric Conditions

X

Vibration

X

Other