Major Responsibilities:
Prepares microscopic slides for subsequent evaluation by the physician by placing tissue samples in selected media; following laboratory procedures for specimen processing and handling.
Prepares frozen tissue sections for further processing per physician orders.
Slices tissue samples into micron thick samples mounted on glass slides. Performs several cuts per slide per physician specifications.
Prepares and adds appropriate chemicals, stains, and coverslip (permanent plastic protectant) to samples per physician order.
Places samples into slide holder for physician evaluation. Ensures that specimens are properly labeled and suitable for testing.
Maintains a filing system for paraffin tissue blocks, slides and wet tissue.
Must be able to demonstrate knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served. Must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of growth and development over the life span and possess the ability to assess data reflective of the patient's status and interpret the appropriate information needed to identify each patient's requirements relative to his/her age-specific needs, and to provide the care needed as described in the department's policies and procedures. Age-specific information is developed further in the departmental job standards.
Licensure, Registration, and/or Certification Required:
None Required.
Education Required: High School Graduate.
Experience Required:
Typically requires 1 year of experience in a clinical setting that includes experiences in providing direct patient care.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required:
- Knowledge of medical terminology and human anatomy.
- Ability to effectively perform in a high stress environment with a high attention to detail and accuracy.
- Excellent customer service skills essential. Ability to effectively communicate (both orally and in writing) with physicians, staff, and patients.
- Ability to multi-task, with strong organization and prioritization skills.
- Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
- Ability to operate all equipment essential to perform the job.
- Sits and stands the majority of the workday as well as walks, lifts, squats, bends and twists throughout.
- May be exposed to mechanical, electrical, chemical, explosive, radioactive and infectious agents.
- Will be exposed to human blood, body fluids and tissue. Must wear protective equipment and clothing such as: lab coat, gloves, gowns and eye and face protection as needed.
- Must be able to handle stressful situations in a calm and professional manner.
- May require travel, therefore may be exposed to inclement weather and adverse road conditions.
- Must possess fine manipulation / motor skills.
- This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected of the incumbent. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the incumbent. Incumbent may be required to perform other related duties.
