Company Description

At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient-first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to join our quest for better healthcare, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. At Northwestern Medicine, we pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, we take care of our employees. Ready to join our quest for better?

Job Description

The Surgical Pathology Technologist reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards. 

The Surgical Pathology Technologist provides assistance to all staff pathologists and residents with gross examination and dissection of designated specimens, specimen receipt, laboratory computer system order entry, preparation of all tissues for gross examination, referral and delivery of samples and supply orders, and customer service (specimen collection and receipt information) via phone and direct communication. 

Responsibilities:

• This position is responsible for communication with clients, pathologists, residents, and supervisors regarding specimen problems.
• The position is also required to participate in the laboratory occurrence management program.
• Perform and/or assist with gross examination, dissection, and selection of representative tissue for microscopic examination for designated specimens.
• Verify that specimen and requisition labeling match prior to examination.
• Resolve discrepancies prior to gross examination and escalate to supervisor when necessary.
• Utilize dictation equipment to document description per procedure.
• Verify specimen identify matches cassette identity prior to submission of tissues.
• Document cassettes and tissues accurately and legibly on logs and in LIS.
• Perform and/or assist with specimen photography or microphotography.
• Assist with intra-operative consultations.
• Cut and stain cryostat sections for microscopic review.
• Maintain staining setup per SOP. Perform cryostat maintenance per SOP.
• Perform block reconciliation with histology staff prior to cassette hand-off.
• Review LIS case record for appropriate billing codes and documentation within the required timeframe.
• Receive specimens in the surgical pathology laboratory per SOP.
• Document specimen receipt and reconcile specimen logs with appropriate follow-up as necessary.
• Verify specimen and requisition meet acceptable criteria per SOP.
• Take necessary corrective action with appropriate OR, clinic, or physician's office to resolve any specimen and/or requisition discrepancies or deficiencies.
• Document any deficiencies per SOP.
• Escalate any issues to management staff appropriately.
• Prioritize specimen processing based on established guidelines.
• Accession specimens into the Laboratory Information System.
• Label requisitions and specimen containers accurately.
• Generate accurately labeled tissue cassettes.
• Collate paperwork, specimens, and tissue cassettes.
• Maintain specimen storage areas.
• Triage surgical and autopsy specimens qualifying for disposal.
• Discard specimens per SOP.
• Answer routine inquiries related to specimen handling and case status.
• Triage department phone calls appropriately.
• Record all documentation consistently and legibly.
• Maintain files (requisitions, specimen delivery logs, problem logs) to ensure information is current and ready for QM review.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment to ensure efficient workflow and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Clean, disinfect, and perform routine maintenance per SOP.
• Perform minor spill cleanup per SOP when necessary.
• Foster department and laboratory teamwork through effective communication.
• Participate in Safety and Infection Control activities. Maintain supply stock.
• Promptly notify management staff of supply shortages or supply delivery problems.
• Take initiative for personal development by attending teleconferences, educational sessions, and required meetings, etc.
• Perform Assist in specific process improvement projects.
• May provide coverage for autopsy procedures.
• May assist pathologists with instruction and orientation of residents to procedures and techniques of basic specimen handling, gross dissection, and dictation of routine biopsies and use of equipment. Some assignments involve long periods of standing.
• Some assignments involve walking to other hospital and clinic buildings.
• May be required to properly handle and dispose of hazardous materials.
• Personal protective equipment is provided by the laboratory and is worn in the department due to exposure to biohazardous and/or chemically hazardous materials.
• This role may support additional projects, perform administrative tasks, and other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications

Required:

• B.S. degree, preferably in the biological, life sciences, medical laboratory technology, or other related field. 

Additional Information

Northwestern Medicine is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected status.