Cytologist - Per Diem

Cytology is the specialized branch of pathology in which licensed Cytologists examine cells microscopically to detect changes indicative of infection or malignancy. The senior cytologist is expected to examine gynecological, non-gynecological and fine needle aspiration specimens and evaluate for the presence of inflammation, organisms, precancerous and cancerous conditions. In addition, the Senior Cytologist supervises and trains Hospital Laboratory Technicians as necessary/in the absence of the Cytology Lab Supervisor.

1. Microscopically examine and mark gynecologic, non-gynecologic, and fine needle aspiration cytology slides according to departmental guidelines. Assess specimen adequacy and analyze cellular morphology for inflammatory, parasitic, precancerous, and cancerous changes.
 

2. Issue timely and accurate reports for routine, normal gynecologic cytology cases. Enter all normal and abnormal findings on CoPath C/S according to departmental protocol. Submit abnormal, high risk, quality control, non-gynecologic and FNA specimens with relevant findings to the cytopathologists for review and final diagnosis.
 

3. Perform on site specimen preparation (smearing) and rapid interpretation of fine needle aspiration specimens for immediate microscopic evaluation. Record rapid microscopic interpretation of specimens for procedures performed in the FNA Clinic, the Department of Radiology, and other inpatient and outpatient settings at UCSF. Perform rapid interpretation of specimen adequacy with the assistance of the cytopathologists and independently, when necessary.
 

4. Assist cytopathologists in the performance of FNA biopsy for ultrasound-guided FNA procedures in the FNA Clinic. This includes preparation of the examination room for patients, entering patient data, assisting with patient positioning and comfort, preparing smears and performing immediate microscopic examination of specimens.
 

5. Assist with palpation and ultrasound-guided FNAs in in-patient settings at Parnassus and Mission Bay. This includes setting up, greeting/rooming patients, holding pressure, capturing images on ultrasound, transporting specimens and any other tasks to facilitate efficient use of cytopathologist’s time.
 

6. Perform other microscopic studies, as requested, including quantitative and qualitative evaluations to determine cyclical changes of endocrine therapy, detection of organisms and specific cell products by Pap and special stains.
 

7. Receive specimens arriving in the Cytology Laboratory for evaluation. Ascertain specimen acceptability against established criteria. Provide timely follow-up communication with appropriate individuals/departments/offices when specimens are determined to be unacceptable due to lack of information, inappropriate packaging, or when specimens are inadequate.
 

8. In the absence of the Hospital Laboratory Technician, process, stain and coverslip slides for microscopic study. Prepare body fluid and other non-gynecologic specimens choosing appropriate processing and concentration techniques according to departmental protocol. Collate slides with appropriate paperwork (including previous patient records as required). Distribute slides to cytopathologists for final diagnosis.
 

9. Record data required for workload statistics, quality control/quality assurance, licensure and accreditation agencies.
 

10. Participate in proficiency testing programs, continuing education programs, teleconferences, internal case review and informal educational discussions.
 

11. Assist in maintaining a safe, well-functioning and clean working place by participating in equipment, facility and supply maintenance. Adhere to departmental and institutional safety policies and procedures.
 

12. Manage supplies at both Mission Bay and Parnassus sites. Include transport and organization of all necessary materials to perform biopsies at both sites. Assure both sites run smoothly with prompt submission of specimens to Mission Bay cytopathology lab and prompt refilling of cytopathology slides to Mission Bay cytopathology area. Assist in obtaining prior slides from Mt Zion to Parnassus and Mission Bay sites.
 

13. Rotate between multiple hospital sites as necessary.
 

14. Senior cytologists are expected to train Hospital Laboratory Technicians and provide general supervision to Hospital Laboratory Technicians as necessary.
 

15. Senior cytologists will compile data on clinical cases for departmental statistics and regulatory agency requirements.
 

16. TUG: Consistent with training, UCSF Medical Center Policies, and the TUGs Operations Manual, receives TUGs; removes, distributes and/or places contents in appropriate storage areas; cleans and disinfects TUGs; deploys TUGs; returns TUGs to appropriate holding areas.
 

17. Perform other duties as assigned by the Medical Director or Supervisor.

Required Qualifications:

•  ASCP certified as Cytologist
• State of California Department of Health Services Licensure as Cytologist
• Thin Prep Certification-eligible within one month of hire
• Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree
   

Preferred Qualifications:

• More than two years of experience as a Cytologist and more than five years of experience as a Senior Cytologist
• Experience in immediate evaluation of fine needle aspiration specimens of deep sites performed by radiologists
• Ability to confidently communicate with clinicians and patients during fine needle aspiration biopsy procedures.

Required Licenses/Certifications:
 

• ASCP certified as Cytologist and Cytologist State of California of Health Services Licensure