Histo Tech II

Trinity Health•Boise, ID

About The Position

Under minimal supervision, the Histo Tech II prepares tissue specimens and subsequent tests for examination by the pathologist. The role identifies direct technical or instrumental causes of problems and makes simple corrections using preset strategies. The position also processes cytology specimens, supports anatomic pathology services, maintains laboratory equipment and supplies, and helps ensure a safe and compliant work environment.

Requirements

Certification as a Histotechnologist (HLT ASCP) or equivalent is required, or the candidate must be registry eligible and obtain certification within one year of hire.
Functioning knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, chemistry, and physiology.
Experience in enzyme histochemistry and immunoperoxidase stains.
Comprehensive knowledge of techniques for embedding, cutting, special staining, and mounting tissue specimens.
High degree of precision and accuracy.
Good oral and written communication skills and excellent interpersonal skills.
Compliance with personal protective equipment requirements for protection from potentially hazardous exposures.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred.
One year of experience in an acute care hospital setting preferred.
Good computer knowledge, including word processing, spreadsheets, and linearity.

Responsibilities

Receive and accession tissue and cytology specimens and prepare them for processing.
Cut thin sections and stain specimens according to established procedures for routine stains, special stains, and immunohistochemistry; coverslip and label slides for Pathologist review.
Review control slides for special stains and immunohistochemistry before submitting them for Pathologist review.
Assist the Pathologist with cutting and staining tissue for frozen sections.
Maintain stocks of reagents and supplies used for stains and processing.
Maintain equipment, instruments, and cleanliness of the work area.
Perform preliminary gross examination of specimens under the Pathologist’s direction.
Maintain a safe and clean Histology/Cytology work environment, including proper labeling, storage, and disposal of chemicals and specimens.
Process and prepare cytology specimens for microscopic examination and storage.
Help transcriptionists and Pathologists retrieve blocks and slides for review, and assist with directing and supervising Laboratory Assistants and other support positions.
Prepare written documentation required by regulatory agencies, the profession, and the department.
Participate in Patient Satisfaction initiatives, including Key Words at Key Times.
Keep informed about new techniques and changes in laboratory procedures and the field of Histology.
Consult with medical staff and other health care providers about anatomic pathology services and recommend additional testing based on results when appropriate.
As appropriate, investigate new products, equipment, techniques, and methodologies; demonstrate their effects and make recommendations.
Maintain individual training and ongoing histology proficiency-testing requirements.
Help control hospital costs by managing overtime, reducing waste of supplies and reagents, using slow periods productively, and using low-census time effectively.
Assist with orienting new employees to safety, equipment operation, procedural techniques, and expected performance levels.
Complete required continuing training and education, including department-specific requirements.
Follow personal protective equipment requirements for protection against blood and other potentially infectious body fluids, chemical disinfectants, radiation, asbestos, and other hazardous substances.
Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.
Demonstrate knowledge of medical terminology, anatomy, chemistry, physiology, enzyme histochemistry, and immunoperoxidase stains.
Use tissue embedding, cutting, special staining, and mounting techniques with a high degree of precision and accuracy.
Communicate orally and in writing, interact effectively with others, use computers and office equipment, and perform data entry.