Histotechnician - PRN - Winston Salem, NC

PURPOSE

This position delivers exceptional patient service by performing duties entailing preparation of tissue specimens for routine and special procedures to be used in the assistance of confirming a diagnosis provided by the pathologist.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• May assist with receipt of specimens and accessioning paraffin cases
• Aid in printing cassettes, slides and slide labels
• Assist with filing slides and pulling slides pertaining to prior cases
• Perform quality assurance checks
• Verify slide and block match for each case
• Compile cases and ensure slides are placed with corresponding patient requisition information
• Ensure stat cases are seen by pathologist with urgency, as soon as available
• Examine and prepare histologic slides from tissue sections for microscopic examination and patient diagnosis
• File blocks and slides appropriately
• Log cases in the biopsy book
• Understand slide stainer, staining cycles and able to load/unload slide stainer
• Operate computerized laboratory equipment to fix, dehydrate, and infiltrate with wax, tissue specimens to be preserved for study by Pathologist
• Prepare slides of specimens, using specified stain, to enhance visibility under microscope
• Examine slides under microscope to ensure tissue preparation meets laboratory requirements
• Submit any outside materials that are needed for review
• Perform histochemistry (special stains) and immunohistochemistry (antibody detection) studies
• Manage unexpected lab situations, such as problems with instruments or detecting health problems that may cause unusual test results
• Operate and maintain instruments used for tissue processing, paraffin embedding and sectioning of specimens
• Perform recuts and additional stains including special and IHC stains, as requested by the Pathologist
• Maintain QC/QA records
• Maintain documentation as required by CLIA guidelines
• Monitor inventory levels of supplies and equipment on a regular basis; order supplies for laboratory. Maintain log of supplies as they are ordered
• Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Knowledge of lab design and operation
• Minimum of two years of experience in a lab setting preferred
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Detail oriented
• Able to demonstrate independent judgment and initiative appropriately
• Must be able to tolerate standing and walking for 8 hours per day
• Proficiency in the operation of a computer keyboard (40 WPM minimum) and ability to work effectively with Microsoft Office Products
• Ability to document patient records using proper grammar, spelling, and syntax
• Must have full range of body motion with the ability to push, pull, reach, bend, stand, stoop, stretch, lift, and carry up to 20 pounds
• Have the hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity needed to operate a keyboard, photocopier, telephone, calculator and medical equipment
• Have a normal range of hearing and eyesight to record, prepare and communicate appropriate reports; specific vision requirements: close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to focus
• Requirements: HS Diploma or equivalent, at least 1 - 2 years' experience in a lab preferred