Histotechnician

Summary

The Histotechnician prepares surgical, autopsy, special hematology, and biopsy specimens for examination, while additionally assisting in cytology as needed.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Complete preparation and identification of surgical specimens for microscope examination by the Pathologist


2. Prepare tissue specimens by treating with chemicals, slicing, and mounting on glass slides for microscopic examination by Pathologists


3. Assist Pathologists with the gross examination of surgical specimens


4. Process tissues to prepare them for embedding


5. Embed tissue specimens in paraffin, and cut sections from paraffin blocks for microscope slides


6. Stain microscopic tissue samples with routine hematoxylin-eosin stain, as well as immunohistochemical and other special stains as requested by the Pathologist


7. Place coverslips and labels properly on surgical microscope slides


8. Maintain a log of all surgical specimens


9. Stay abreast of trends in histology and clinical practices which impact patient care


10. Comply with established histology standards


11. Implement and maintain established department, unit, and hospital policies, procedures, and objectives regarding quality assurance, safety, clinical hygiene, and infection control


12. Utilize supplies and equipment in a cost-effective manner


13. Maintain a clean, safe, and orderly environment


14. Maintain the rights and confidentiality of patients at all times

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience

Minimum Required Education: High school diploma, plus 1+ year training at an ASCP approved school of Histology

Preferred Education: Associate’s Degree in Histology

Experience: 1+ year as a Histotechnician with working knowledge of microtome, cryostat, tissue embedding center, and tissue processor

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

Preferred applicants will have their Histology Technologist Certification at time of hire.