Histologist HT/HTL

The Histologist will perform various tasks required to prepare histologic slides from human tissue sections for microscopic examination and diagnosis by the Pathologist. This may include receiving specimens, accessioning, logging, processing, embedding, cutting, mounting, and performing routine, special, and IHC (immunohistochemical) stains. This person may assist and perform gross examinations as trained by the pathologist.

The Histologist will properly maintain block and slide files as well as and coordinate send-out materials. JOB QUALIFICATIONS Education or Formal Training A Bachelors OR an Associates Degree OR at least 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) of academic credit from a college/university with a combination of 12 semester hours (18 quarter hours) of biology and chemistry (verified through ASCP for license); AND, Must be certified by ASCP (copy of license required); OR, One -year full time acceptable experience in histopathology under the supervision of a pathologist or an appropriately certified medical scientist, half of the hours will be completed in the BCH histology laboratory.

The candidate for this position will be required to sit for the appropriate certification within 9 months of eligibility. The HT/HTL job classification is contingent upon successful completion of ASCP certification within 3 years of eligibility. Special Qualifications (Licensure, Registration, etc.) Knowledge, Skill and Ability Ability to work accurately and efficiently under pressure.

Ability to effectively handle non-routine requests. Must be able to effectively communicate with pathologists and other hospital personnel. Must be able to effectively organize time to ensure completion of work in a timely manner.

Willingness to adjust to new procedures, schedules, and other changes in the department. Maintain strictest confidentiality with patient information. Maintain uncompromising accuracy in specimen viability and identification.

Uses professional courtesy in dealing with patient families, physicians, and their staff. Experience 2,080 hours of experience in a Histopathology laboratory preferred MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT DIRECTLY USED Phones Computers, computer programs, information systems, and printers Tissue processor, embedding center, microtomes, microtome blades, water baths, IHC stainer, autostainer, coverslipper, and cryostat General tissue dissecting equipment Hazardous chemicals and stains Recycling still Dictation Equipment.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES Good visual acuity, normal color perception. Fine motor coordination. Clear speech, normal hearing Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and push up to 75 pounds Must be able to tolerate unpleasant odors or fumes Must be able to tolerate many different body tissues Will be exposed to chemical hazards, sharp instruments, communicable diseases, and blood borne pathogens INTERRELATIONSHIPS The Laboratory Director, Pathology Supervisor, Lab Manager, Pathologists, Laboratory Director, Histologists, and Transcriptionists SUPERVISORY DUTIES None

AND RESPONSIBILITIES Operates instrumentation for tissue dehydration, clearing, and infiltration with paraffin. Embeds tissue specimens with proper orientation to ensure that areas of best diagnostic features are cut. Uses microtome to properly cut representative sections of tissue specimens.

Maintains files for specimen blocks and slides. Performs routine H & E staining. Performs IHC and special stains requested by pathologists without direct supervision Prepares reagents, solutions, and stains in accordance with written staining procedures.

When requested, assists pathologists with frozen section procedures. Assists pathologists during gross examination or performs gross dissection of non-complicated surgical specimens. Efficiently coordinates the distribution of send out materials.

Processes cytology GYN and non GYN specimens. Follows procedures for routine maintenance of lab equipment. Accurately completes daily report sheets and charging.

Follows departmental procedures for chemical handling. Helps maintain satisfactory inventory of supplies and utilizes them in a now-wasteful manner. Plans and uses time effectively and efficiently and shows a willingness to assist other laboratory personnel when requested or, as workload permits, without being requested to do so.

Works for the betterment of the patient, the hospital, and self, within established guidelines. Maintains professional behavior and communication. Encourages other lab personnel towards professional growth and development by sharing information.

Maintains ENCORE! standards. Assumes personal responsibility for ongoing, continuing education and professional development. Lean participation expected.

Complies with all regulatory requirements, including Joint Commission Standards. Is familiar with organization, department and job specific environment of care, including Life Safety, Utilities Management, Hazardous Materials Communications, Emergency Preparedness, Infection Control, and Medical Equipment Failure. Adheres to Standard Precautions as appropriate, which may include: the use of protective barriers, as appropriate (e.g., gloves, masks, gowns, pocket masks, and/or safety glasses); handling and disposing of infectious waste appropriately; and hand washing as appropriate.