Under direct supervision, prepares and processes tissue specimens for microscopic examination by a Pathologist. Duties include embedding, cutting, and staining a wide variety of tissue specimens.
Laboratories. Mix ingredients and perform quality assurance procedures. Prepare solutions, diagnostic test reagents, surgical tissue specimens, and tissue and bone sections. Sort and chill tissue blocks. Sort, number and label specimens in specified sequence. Embed tissue. Examine media for physical defects. Examine reagents for contamination, impurities or instability. Maintain microtome blades. Prepare frozen section slides and control slides. Stain microscopic slides. Store specimens in freezer. Set up specimen tests and controls for interpretation. Clean work area. Dispose properly of laboratory specimens and waste material. Wash laboratory glassware and instruments. Read and assess control slides. Perform special histochemical techniques and plastic techniques. Records and Patient Information. Read and assess control slides. Consult with pathologist concerning lab techniques. Look up and report test results as requested. Prepare lab worksheets. File slides and tissue cards. Maintain current records of all testing. Record and maintain daily log and files of complete studies. Record and maintain records of equipment usage, Quality Control Record sheets, and previous maintenance sheets. Equipment and Instruments. Calibrate and adjust equipment in preparation for and during procedures. Clean, lubricate and perform routine preventive maintenance. Maintain equipment in good working order. Materials and Supplies. Maintain and order supplies. Properly dispose of waste materials. Properly dispose of contaminated or biohazardous materials. Maintain solutions, chemicals and automatic equipment. Replenish supplies and equipment. Administrative and Other. Serve as resource person to co-workers by answering procedural questions and assisting in problem solving. Answer telephones and take messages. Other Activities and Responsibilities. Assumes other activities and responsibilities from time to time as directed. Job Code 35596