Class Series Concept
Definition
Prepare tissue specimens for microscopic analysis; guide and instruct Histologic Technician 1's, laboratory assistants and others.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Under general supervision, prepare tissue for microscopic analysis; assist medical staff in acquisition and examination of specimens; provide guidance to other staff.
Typical Work
Monitor and perform quality control of specimens; perform initial examination of prepared specimens; determine disposition of improperly handled specimens; identify problems, take corrective action, notify supervisor of action taken and monitor follow-up solutions;
Perform all histologic procedures pertaining to preparation of microscopic slides such as processing, embedding, microtomy, staining and coverslipping;
Perform animal fixations and tissue dissections;
Perform special stain techniques such as silver stain; modify and adapt new procedures; prepare reagents, dyes and solutions;
Conduct procedures for renal/cardiac pathology and muscle biopsy;
Examine and dictate gross description of selected tissue specimens;
Assist pathologist/resident in the gross examination of surgical specimens; interpret requests and determine appropriate techniques or procedures for various types of tissue specimens;
Assist physician/pathologist at patient bedside for collection and preparation of biopsies and aspirates; advise physician/pathologist as to specimen adequacy;
Distribute material to appropriate laboratories;
Instruct and orient pathology residents; provide procedural information to medical staff, physicians/pathologists, outside medical personnel and new employees;
Identify appropriate protocol for specimen distribution to and from hospital departments and other outside sources/inquiries;
Analyze and determine cause(s) of instrument malfunction, take corrective action and monitor follow-up; maintain quality control of instruments; evaluate new products and instruments to provide input in decision process;
Record complete patient information either manually or by computer; maintain comprehensive records of procedures;
Perform related duties as required.
Legal Requirement(s)
There may be instances where individual positions must have additional licenses or certification. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure the appropriate licenses/certifications are obtained for each position.
Persons legally authorized to work in the U.S. under federal law, including Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, are eligible for employment unless prohibited by other state or federal law.
Desirable Qualifications
Certified as a Histologic Technician by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP)
AND
Completion of a Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation (CAHEA) approved school course of study
AND
One year of experience in a clinical or research laboratory
OR
Three years of experience in a clinical laboratory
Equivalent education/experience.
Class Specification History
Revise Title and Class: 12-14-73
Revise Class: 3-3-89
Revise Minimum Qualifications: 4-6-90
Revised new class code: (formerly 6381) effective July 1, 2007
Revised Legal Requirements; effective June 6, 2024, due to adopted legislative action.