Histopathology Technologist

Department of Veterans Affairs•Detroit, MI

30d•Onsite

About The Position

The Histopathology Technologist serves as a specialized technologist in the Anatomic Pathology(AP) section of the John D. Dingell VAMC- Detroit, MI. The Histopathology Technologist independently performs a wide scope of routine and specialized tests. In addition to an in-depth working knowledge of histotechnology and cytotechnology procedures , the position requires a progressive knowledge of information technology systems, including knowledge of computer-based anatomic pathology equipment. Major duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: Performing independently using technical judgement for analysis evaluation and problem resolution in their duties. Performing functions on both the JDDVAMC and the PALMS laboratory information systems including their inter-connectivity. Demonstrating histotechnology chemistry, anatomy and physiology principles theories, concepts techniques and methodologies sufficient to process both surgical and cytology pathology specimens. Applying difficult complex anatomic pathology principles, practice concepts and theories, as they pertain to Quality control and assurance procedures, Performance improvement principles, Reagent and supply management, Document control and workload recording systems, Human anatomy, specialized testing methods and techniques. Identifying and testing suboptimal specimens· taking corrective action to minimize the impact on a patient's specimen. Following standard operating procedures (SOP) and/or seeking guidance to reconcile any discrepancies, as needed. Performing technical oversight of quality control procedures, to include troubleshooting and problem resolution, on equipment ,reagents and products, while keeping proper records for quality assurance and quality control reports. Organizing, coordinating and prioritizing simultaneous individual work assignments. Performing routine Anatomic Pathology procedures Specimen accessioning, processing, embedding, cutting (microtomy) staining and coverslipping, Performing quality control on daily stain control slide, Tracking specimens through our processes using computer based 2D barcode technology, Preparing and distributing technically acceptable slides of surgical, cytology and autopsy specimens for analysis, Assisting the pathologist and/r clinician during an autopsy, fine needle aspirate or kidney biopsy procedure, Performing techniques for handling bone marrow autopsy, cell block and fine-needle biopsy specimens, Cryomicrotomy and staining frozen section specimens, Chemical viability evaluation and testing. Performing complex Anatomic Pathology procedures to include lmmunohistochemistry staining, to include antibody, reagent and control verification, Special staining, to include reagent and control verification, selecting appropriate tissue section/instrumentation for cutting bone specimens. Following established procedures to perform scheduled preventive maintenance on instruments and equipment while verifying correct operation. Documents instrument maintenance in the appropriate logbooks/binders. Reports any problems and/or concerns to the Anatomic Pathology supervisor. Identifying the cause of instrument and equipment problems and making instrument repairs, as needed. Performing SnoMed coding, to include surgical, cytology and autopsy reports. Communicating effectively; to include constructive interaction and cooperation with all customers, internal and external. Treating visitors to the work area, including telephone inquiries, with competency, respect and courtesy, seeking assistance when needed.

Responsibilities

Performing independently using technical judgement for analysis evaluation and problem resolution in their duties.
Performing functions on both the JDDVAMC and the PALMS laboratory information systems including their inter-connectivity.
Demonstrating histotechnology chemistry, anatomy and physiology principles theories, concepts techniques and methodologies sufficient to process both surgical and cytology pathology specimens.
Applying difficult complex anatomic pathology principles, practice concepts and theories, as they pertain to Quality control and assurance procedures, Performance improvement principles, Reagent and supply management, Document control and workload recording systems, Human anatomy, specialized testing methods and techniques.
Identifying and testing suboptimal specimens· taking corrective action to minimize the impact on a patient's specimen.
Following standard operating procedures (SOP) and/or seeking guidance to reconcile any discrepancies, as needed.
Performing technical oversight of quality control procedures, to include troubleshooting and problem resolution, on equipment ,reagents and products, while keeping proper records for quality assurance and quality control reports.
Organizing, coordinating and prioritizing simultaneous individual work assignments.
Performing routine Anatomic Pathology procedures Specimen accessioning, processing, embedding, cutting (microtomy) staining and coverslipping, Performing quality control on daily stain control slide, Tracking specimens through our processes using computer based 2D barcode technology, Preparing and distributing technically acceptable slides of surgical, cytology and autopsy specimens for analysis, Assisting the pathologist and/r clinician during an autopsy, fine needle aspirate or kidney biopsy procedure, Performing techniques for handling bone marrow autopsy, cell block and fine-needle biopsy specimens, Cryomicrotomy and staining frozen section specimens, Chemical viability evaluation and testing.
Performing complex Anatomic Pathology procedures to include lmmunohistochemistry staining, to include antibody, reagent and control verification, Special staining, to include reagent and control verification, selecting appropriate tissue section/instrumentation for cutting bone specimens.
Following established procedures to perform scheduled preventive maintenance on instruments and equipment while verifying correct operation. Documents instrument maintenance in the appropriate logbooks/binders. Reports any problems and/or concerns to the Anatomic Pathology supervisor.
Identifying the cause of instrument and equipment problems and making instrument repairs, as needed.
Performing SnoMed coding, to include surgical, cytology and autopsy reports.
Communicating effectively; to include constructive interaction and cooperation with all customers, internal and external.
Treating visitors to the work area, including telephone inquiries, with competency, respect and courtesy, seeking assistance when needed.