HISTOTECHNICIAN-Per Diem

About the role

The Histotechnician processes anatomical specimens and prepares slides for Pathologists to examine under a microscope. This involves logging, processing, embedding, cutting, and mounting of specimens, as well as staining the slides.

Responsibilities

• Log in surgical specimens using LIS to accurately note patient identification, specimen source, collection method and the number of blocks made; log specimens, print labels and retrieve and edit data as needed.
• Absorb specimens, assist the pathologist with the gross examination of surgical specimens, following Standard Precautions when handling specimens.
• Load and program tissue processor to prepare the surgical specimens for embedding, ensuring sufficient reagents and checking for outdated or unsuitable stains.
• Embed the processed tissue samples in paraffin, orienting the specimens for an acceptable slide, and noting any special instructions.
• Use the microtome to section the tissue blocks using the appropriate cut, i.e., serial or step section, and mount the section on a microscope slide, ensuring that any STATs, RUSHES or special requests are done first.
• Prepare staining solutions as needed, discarding outdated or unsuitable stains, and stain tissue slides as appropriate, considering the tissue type and fixative used.
• Cover slip the slides and correctly label them with the appropriate LIS-generated label.
• Assist the pathologist with frozen sections by ensuring the cryotome is ready, logging in the specimen, and assisting as requested with sectioning, noting any special instructions such as culturing or special staining.
• Prepare and stain PAP and non-GYN cytology slides, file slides and blocks to ensure easy retrieval, and respond to changes in the workflow as necessary.
• Check and record daily all pertinent instrument temperatures, advising the section head of any critical variations.
• Operate the tissue processor, cryotome, and microtome; clean and perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting as required.
• Use reagents, supplies, and other resources in a cost-effective manner; maintain proper stocking levels as required by the histology lab.
• Correctly identify all specimens, surgical blocks, and slides by cross-referencing the patient's medical record number and demographic information.
• Carefully handle, use, and dispose of scalpel and microtome blades to prevent injuries to others and self; safely handle chemicals and reagents, avoiding spills or unnecessary occupational exposure; properly dispose of old tissue and reagents.
• Maintain the histology lab in a neat, organized manner that facilitates job performance and minimizes the risk of personal injuries.
• Review the Operating Room schedule on a daily basis and inform the pathologist about any frozen sections on the schedule, paying close attention to those scheduled before 9 am.
• Work with and assist student interns to gain proficiency with their assigned tasks or studies.
• Handle telephone requests for information with courtesy, accuracy, and ensure patient, hospital, and physician confidentiality; receive information and distribute messages appropriately.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• NYS SED license as a Histotechnician or Medical Lab Technician required.
• AAS degree as Histotechnician or Medical Lab Technician required.
• 2 years of experience preferred.

Qualifications

• Excellent computer skills required.
• Excellent time management skills, interpersonal skills, and ability to handle several tasks simultaneously.
• Professionalism and business acumen appropriate for working with guests, clients, physicians, employees, and volunteers.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic office skills such as sorting, printing, faxing, and record keeping.

Skills

• Excellent computer skills.
• Excellent time management skills.
• Interpersonal skills.
• Professionalism and business acumen.
• Verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic office skills.

Benefits

Not specified.

Pay

$24.50-$26.50/hour. Employee salary is based on commensurate experience and other qualifications.

Schedule

Not specified.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Oswego Health is committed to providing equal opportunity in all employment-related matters, without regard to race (including traits historically associated with race), creed, color, religion, sex/gender, national origin, age, marital or familial status, disability, pregnancy-related condition, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, citizenship status, ancestry, arrest/conviction record, military or veteran status, domestic violence victim status, genetic predisposition or carrier status, reproductive health decision making, relationship or association with a member of a protected category, or any other legally protected characteristic. Decisions affecting your position including, but not limited to, recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, compensation, benefits, training, tuition assistance, leaves of absence, disciplinary action, layoff/recall, and terminations will be made in accordance with this policy.

Additional Information

The mission of Oswego Health is to provide accessible, quality care and improve the health of residents throughout Oswego County. Oswego Health is a nonprofit healthcare system that was established in 1881, and is proud to continue to be one of Oswego County’s largest employers. More than 1,200 employees spread throughout its 17 locations, work for the Oswego Health system, which includes the 164-bed community hospital with a brand new Medical Surgical Unit, a 32-bed state-of-the-art psychiatric acute-care facility with multiple outpatient behavioral health service locations, The Manor at Seneca Hill, a 120-bed skilled nursing facility, and Springside at Seneca Hill, an independent retirement community. The health system also operates Oswego Health Home Care, the only hospital-based certified home healthcare agency in the County as well as two outpatient centers, including the Fulton Medical Center, offering urgent care, lab, medical imaging, physical therapy, and occupational health services; and the Central Square Medical Center, offering urgent care, lab, medical imaging, and physical therapy services. In addition, Oswego Health includes the Oswego Health captive professional corporation, Physician Care P.C., providing physician services in orthopedics, cardiology, ENT, gastroenterology, breast care, audiology, general surgery, bariatrics, and primary care.