Under very general supervision, handles and prepares surgical and autopsy tissue for microscopic analysis. Maintains diagnostic viability of all specimens received and interprets results of special studies. Embeds, sections and stains a wide variety of routine and complex tissue. Performs routine and complex special stains, coverslips slides, and accurately labels slides and blocks. Responsible for sign out of slides and filing of blocks. Records work in laboratory log books and in hospital computer with a high level of accuracy. Maintains laboratory equipment and working solutions for stains. Independently trouble-shoots problems relating to routine operation of laboratory. Orients and trains new and less advanced laboratory staff.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Maintains diagnostic viability of all specimens received. Ensures correct patient labeling of all materials received. Interprets results of special studies, distinguishing negative results from failed study. Uses independent judgement in tissue fixation issues.
Embeds routine and complex tissue in paraffin, orienting according to tissue type indicated on worksheet. Checks surgical case number and verifies on worksheet. Records on grossing sheets the number of blocks received and organizes blocks for sectioning.
Sections paraffin blocks of routine and complex tissue from 2 to 50 microns using a microtome. Mounts paraffin section on microscopic slide and transfers surgical case number to slide. Verifies match of surgical case number between blocks and slides.
May perform frozen sections of routine and complex tissue for immunohistochemistry and enzyme histochemistry.
May perform other specialized histologic procedures such as nerve teasing, limited routine immunohistochemistry and microtomy utilizing a sliding microtome.
Performs H&E staining, and routine and complex special staining of paraffin embedded tissue according to instructions on requisition paperwork. Verifies match of surgical case number between slides and paperwork.
Coverslips prepared slides manually and utilizing automated systems. Records in laboratory logbooks all slides and stains prepared. Logs appropriate information into the surgical pathology computer system. Verifies match of surgical case number.
Organizes slides for distribution to residents, fellows and/or senior pathologists according to requisition paperwork and worksheets. Documents and follows up with senior pathologist any errors encountered.
Responsible for filing and accurate record keeping of paraffin tissue blocks.
Responsible for documentation of daily QA/QC charts for all laboratory equipment.
Independently troubleshoots problems relating to routine operation of laboratory. Evaluates existing protocols and recommends changes.
Orients and trains new and less advanced laboratory staff.
Competent in the use of a PH meter. Understands the theory of molarity and buffer solutions.
Prepares and maintains working solutions for routine H&E staining on automatic stainers, including daily quality control. Prepares and maintains working solutions of routine and complex special stains, including maintaining acceptable working volumes.
Maintains individual microtome and other laboratory equipment in proper working order, following appropriate laboratory safety protocols. Extensive knowledge of all laboratory equipment.
Participates in continuing education/in-service training sessions sponsored by the Department.
Maintains established department policies, procedures and objectives, including the areas of quality assurance, safety, environmental and infection control.
Follows all JCAHO National Patient Safety Goals and related BWH Laboratory and Hospital policies.
Performs all other duties and responsibilities as directed.
Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalency required. A.S., B.S. or B.A. in a biological or chemical science and/or completion of a NAACLS accredited histology technician training program highly desired.
Other qualifications described in the Federal Register, 42 CFR, Subpart M 493.1351-1495.
Brigham and Women's Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, age, veteran status, disability unrelated to job requirements, genetic information, military service, or other protected status.
