Histology Technologist - 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 (IHC)/immunofluorescence (IF), 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 TJC and CAP guidelines.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Process, embed, and make sections of surgical and autopsy tissue or cell blocks submitted for microscopic examination per protocol.
• Cut and stain frozen sections for rapid diagnosis.
• Perform H&E staining, Special Staining, IHC, and IF staining on slides per protocol.
• Examine all slides produced using a microscope and submit only those slides which are of high quality.
• Appropriately prepare and maintain tissue fixatives and paraffins for tissue embedding, maintain reagents and solutions for staining of slides.
• Maintain and make minor adjustments and repairs to laboratory equipment such as microtomes, embedding machines and tissue processors in accordance with manufacturer''s instructions and departmental procedures.
• Maintain records of tissue preparations and quality control, including archiving slides and blocks.
• Participates in the training, education, and observation of medical students, new hires, residents, and clinical rotation students residents in the principles and techniques of histologic procedures.
• 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 as outlined by CAP, TJC, OHSA''s Blood borne Pathogens Control Act, and institutional and departmental policies.
• Interact with physicians, patients, staff, visitors and all customers via telephone conversations and in person in a professional, pleasant, and helpful manner.
• Assess glomeruli for renal biopsies and separate and prepare kidney cores for EM, IF, and routine histology processing in accordance with departmental procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.