Cytology Lab Assistant

PathGroup•Coppell, TX

About The Position

The Cytology Lab Assistant qualifies as high-complexity testing personnel under CLIA-88 regulations. Under the direction of the Medical Director of Pathology, this position independently accessions and grossly examines tissue specimens. The role includes preparing specimens for examination and testing, documenting findings, maintaining supplies and work areas, handling hazardous materials and waste, and following laboratory procedures and quality, safety, privacy, and security requirements.

Requirements

Must qualify as high-complexity testing personnel under CLIA-88 regulations.
An earned associate degree in laboratory science or medical laboratory technology from an accredited institution; or equivalent education and training meeting CLIA requirements, including at least 60 semester hours or equivalent from an accredited institution with specified coursework and laboratory training.
Laboratory training must include completion of a clinical laboratory training program approved or accredited by ABHES, CAHEA, or another organization approved by HHS, or at least three months of documented laboratory training in each specialty in which high-complexity testing is performed. Training may be included in the 60 semester hours.
Minimum of one year of previous job-related experience in a health care environment.

Responsibilities

Complete a documented training program in accordance with CLIA standards.
Accession and prepare tissue specimens for gross examination.
Perform gross dissections of higher-complexity cases and smaller surgical and biopsy cases.
Perform gross dictations according to department specimen protocols.
Hang tissue properly on processors.
Photograph specimens using Polaroid, digital, and 35 mm formats.
Prepare tissue for send-out testing, including lymphoma phenotyping and quantitative iron studies.
Prepare routine solutions, maintain an inventory of supplies, store supplies appropriately, and keep the work area clean.
Handle and dispose of hazardous waste, including xylene, reagent alcohol, formaldehyde, and B-Plus; dispose of specimens according to procedures.
Meet department and quality assurance standards.
Review procedure manuals and stay current with procedural changes.
Follow laboratory safety precautions and procedures in laboratory manuals.
Perform responsibilities in alignment with industry security practices and regulatory guidelines to protect protected health information and other sensitive company data.
Follow the Corporate Compliance Program and corporate policies, including Privacy and Security policies.