Histology Technologist (IHC Histotechnologist) - UI Health, Labs/Pathology Services

The Histology Technologist performs a wide variety of standard histological procedures including processing, embedding, sectioning, staining to include H&E, special staining, immunohistochemistry/immunofluorescence, cover slipping and labeling of tissues resulting from surgery and/or autopsy. The histologist is responsible for maintaining laboratory procedures, quality control and safety manuals in accordance with JCAHO and CAP guidelines.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Process, embed, and make sections of surgical and autopsy tissue submitted for microscopic examination.
• Cut and stain frozen sections for rapid diagnosis.
• Section paraffin blocks as per procedure.
• Perform routine H&E staining as well as implement new and established stains.
• Examine all slides produced using a microscope and submit only those slides which are of high quality.
• Prepare and maintain tissue fixatives and paraffins for tissue embedding, maintain reagents and solutions for staining of tissue sections.
• Maintain and make minor adjustments and repairs to laboratory equipment such as microtomes, embedding machines and tissue processors.
• Maintain records of tissue preparations and quality control, including archiving slides and blocks.
• Assist in the instruction of students, laboratory personnel and residents in the principles and techniques of histologic procedures.
• Maintain a neat, orderly and safe working environment in the laboratory while adhering to all guidelines of OHSA's Blood borne Pathogens Control Act.
• Participates in the training, education, and observation of medical students, new hires, residents, and clinical rotation students.
• Perform basic tracking, look-up, and billing functions of blocks and slides through the middleware and IS systems.
• Use information systems down time procedures when appropriate.
• Review blocks and slides, using technical and scientific knowledge to recognize and verify validity and clinical relevance; consult with supervisor prior to the release of blocks/slides if unusual or unanticipated; follow laboratory SOP’s for block/slide preparation.
• Perform established quality assurance procedures such as quality control testing, instrument function checks, periodic maintenance, and maintain appropriate records for these procedures.
• Participate in CAP proficiency testing, participate in data collection and monitoring of quality assurance monitors as determined by department and section policy.
• Maintain a neat, orderly and safe working environment in the laboratory while adhering to all guidelines of OHSA's Blood borne Pathogens Control Act.
• Interact with physicians, patients, staff, visitors and all customers via telephone conversations and in person in a pleasant and helpful manner.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.