Provides technical assistance to prepare specimens for examinations by a Pathologist, following established policies and procedures. Performs specimen accessioning, distribution, staining, cover slipping and repair of histology slides, maintains slide files and records. Exercises sound judgment, and developed clinical skills to execute safe and precise specimen handling. Adheres to all local/state/federal regulations, codes, policies and procedures to ensure privacy and safety while delivering optimal patient care. May also be responsible for performing specific procedures and/or teaching duties.
- Prepares and handles specimens for examination by the Pathologist
- Utilizes both HIS and the Pathology Information System to look up patient demographics, laboratory orders and results.
- Prepares tissue and body fluid specimens from patients using established technique and maintaining the integrity of the specimen in relation to the procedure that is to be performed.
- Receives and unpacks surgical consults, Cytology and Pathology specimens and accompanying requisitions from internal departments
- Processes pathology specimens, gathers billing information, and collates information as needed for the pathologists.
- Prepares pathology specimens for analysis or transport to a reference laboratory or main laboratory as appropriate and accurately completes all associated documentation.
- Prepares samples according to procedure (or reference lab testing requirements), with meticulous attention to detail.
- Accurately labels test slides and samples taken from patient specimens. Correlates information on specimen, requisition and worksheet before results are recorded.
- Accessions specimen data into Pathology Information System accurately completing all screens, assigns case numbers, and manually labels specimens, accurately matching patient label to slide.
- Coordinates slides, reports, and related materials for pathologist’s participation on hospital boards and conferences
- Handle all communication regarding pathology reports, slides, legal reports, and departmental requests.
- Performs routine maintenance per written laboratory protocols including daily cleaning. Keeps appropriate records of all maintenance.
- Files and maintains all slides according to system protocols
- Maintain all lab areas in a clean, functional state
- Reports and documents problems as they arise and takes corrective actions when required.
- Prints and completes worklists during shift
- Responsible for ensuring that established policies, procedures, and practices including but not limited to quality control, quality assurance, compliance, safety, environmental and infection control standards as applicable are being followed.
- Stores, directs and disposes patient specimens according to established procedures.
- Manages lab supplies and ensures that routine and priority tasks are completed within established departmental time frames.
- Properly labels, stores, handles, and disposes reagents and hazardous wastes according to local, State and Federal regulations. Handles all lab chemicals per protocol using appropriate protective equipment.
- Processes all cytology specimens for review by cytotech and/or pathologist following established procedures
- Maintains and cleans histology equipment including replacing chemicals and stains
- Assists with histology duties including labeling slides, cover slipping, preparing materials for delivery to specified locations, preparing blocks and slides for IHC and special requests.
Qualifications:
Education: High school diploma or General Education Diploma (GED) equivalent.
Licensure/Certifications: NA
Experience: Requires clinical and practical pathology experience including assisting in receipt and processing surgical specimens as typically acquired in a similar environment.
Previous experience as a Pathology Lab Assistant sufficient to demonstrate competency in a highly technical environment required.
Experience in an acute care / hospital setting is preferred.
Previous specimen processing experience preferred.
Skills and Knowledge:
Knowledge of PowerPath or other AP software
Must demonstrate flexibility and ability to change tasks rapidly and frequently.
Working knowledge of basic pathology terminology required.
Must be willing to work with hazardous chemicals, including formalin, alcohol and xylene.
The list of job accountabilities, competencies, skills and knowledge, and requirements is not comprehensive, but is merely the most descriptive of the current job. Management reserves the right to revise the job description or require that other tasks be performed when the circumstances of the job change (i.e., emergencies, staff changes, workload or technical development, or restructure)
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $32.00 - $42.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person
