Histology Technician Duties
SUMMARY
This is advanced technical and limited supervisory work in the
preparation of tissue specimens for pathological examination.
Work involves responsibility for accuracy in preparing, cutting,
staining, and mounting tissue sections to assist pathologists in
making correct diagnosis of patient's disease and cause of
death; in teaching pathology and in studies of pathologic
phenomena. Employees of this class may assist in training lower
level technicians and may ensure that work progresses in the
absence of a supervisor. Work is performed in accordance with
standard laboratory practices and procedures and technical
guidance is available for unusual cases. Work is performed under
the supervision of a technical superior who reviews procedures
and results.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Receives specimens of tissue from surgical or diagnostic cases
and from autopsy, sorts then in accordance with priority and
difficulty of work, and identifies them by number.
Trims specimens into blocks and fixes tissue into formalin or
other fixing solution.
Dehydrates tissue sections by immersion I acetone or alcohol
baths.
Clears sections by use of special liquid reagents.
Impregnates sections with paraffin in vacuum.
Prepares specimens by frozen section method.
Prepares micro sections of ophthalmological and bony specimens
by collodion embedding.
Assists lower level technicians in selecting proper stains in
order to bring out certain tissue elements as required for
diagnosis.
Takes periodic inventory of supplies and equipment and prepares
requisition forms to replenish depleted supplies.
Performs related work as required.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Graduation from a standard high school, including course work in
the natural sciences; and considerable experience in
histological laboratory work; or any equivalent combination of
training and experience.
Candidates for this position must possess, at time of
appointment, certification as a Histology Technician from the
Registry of the American Society of Clinical Pathologists.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Thorough knowledge of the principles and procedures of
laboratory science.
Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of histologic
techniques.
Ability to perform assigned tasks according to exactly
prescribed procedures and to make accurate observations of
results.
Special ability required to perceive three-dimensional and
geometrical relationships when cutting paraffin blocks and
making embedding molds.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working
relationships with physicians and fellow employees.
Skill in laboratory manipulative techniques.
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