SUMMARY:

Under minimal supervision, prepares the tissue specimens and subsequent tests for examination by the pathologist. Identifies direct causes (technical or instrumental) of problems and makes simple corrections using preset strategies.

REQUIREMENTS:

1. Qualified to perform high complexity testing under CLIA, normally acquired by Certification as a Histology Technician (HT) or equivalent by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP).

2. 1 year of experience in an acute care hospital setting preferred.

3. Technical skills in operation of microtome, tissue processor and other equipment necessary to perform essential functions required.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

• Knows, understands, incorporates, and demonstrates the Organization's Mission, Vision, and Values in behaviors, practices, and decisions.

• Meets Health System's Guiding Behaviors and Caring Standards including interpersonal communication and professional conduct expectations.

• Receive and accession tissue and cytology specimens, and prepare specimens for processing.

• Cut thin sections and stain according to established procedure for routine, special stains, immunohistochemistry and coverslip and label finished slides for the Pathologist's review. Review control slides for special stains and immunohistochemistry before turning in for Pathologist review.

• Assist the Pathologist with cutting and staining of tissues for frozen sections.

• Maintain stock of necessary reagents and supplies for all stains and processing utilized in the department.

• Maintain equipment, instruments and cleanliness of working area.

• Perform preliminary gross examination of specimens, under direction of Pathologist.

• Maintain safe, clean work environment in Histology/Cytology, including proper labeling and storage of chemicals and specimens (and disposal of same).

• Process and prepare cytology specimens for microscopic examination and storage.

• Assist transcriptionists and Pathologists in retrieving blocks and slides for review and assist in the direction and supervision of Laboratory Assistants and other support positions.

• Prepares written documentation as required by regulatory agencies, the profession and the department. Regulatory agencies include, but are not limited to: FDA, JCAHO, CAP, CLIA, OSHA, and the State of Idaho.

• All laboratory employees will actively participate in the Patient Satisfaction initiatives: Key Words at Key Times

• Keeps informed of new techniques, changes in procedures within the Laboratory and in the field of Histology.

• Consults with medical staff and other health care providers on matters relating to anatomical pathology services. Recommends additional testing based on results obtained, as appropriate.

• May investigate new products, equipment, techniques, methodologies, and introduce, demonstrate effects, and make recommendations, as appropriate.

• Maintains individual training and ongoing proficiency testing requirements for histology.

• Assists in controlling hospital costs through such actions as controlling use of over-time, reducing waste of supplies and reagents, using slow times productively and utilization of low census time.

• Assist in section orientation of new employees concerning safety equipment operation, procedural techniques, and expected performance levels.

• Complete required continuous training and education, including department specific requirements.

• Comply with established personal protective equipment requirements necessary for protection against exposure to blood and other potentially infectious body fluids, chemical disinfectants, radiation, asbestos, and other hazardous substances.

• Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.

• Functioning knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, chemistry, physiology, and experience in enzyme histochemistry and immuoperoxidase stains.

• Comprehensive knowledge of techniques for embedding, cutting, special staining, and mounting tissue specimens. High degree of precision and accuracy.

• Good oral and written communication skills; excellent interpersonal skills; good knowledge of computers (word processing spreadsheet, linearity) preferred. Requires ability to use office equipment, such as computer terminals for data entry.

Our Commitment

Rooted in our Mission and Core Values, we honor the dignity of every person and recognize the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each colleague brings. By finding common ground and embracing our differences, we grow stronger together and deliver more compassionate, person-centered care. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.