Pathology Specialist I, Surgical Grossing Room

GENERAL SUMMARY/ OVERVIEW STATEMENT:

Acting under the supervision of the Technical Supervisor of Surgical Pathology, processes a full range of non-complex* human surgical pathology specimens in a high-volume academic setting. Triages and accessions all specimen types received in the Surgical Grossing Room. Acts as the first line of quality control during the accessioning process - troubleshooting specimens received with insufficient documentation or required clinical information. When necessary, may require review of the case at sign-out with a pathologist. Provides instruction to resident trainees on appropriate specimen handling of non-complex specimens. Performs other technical and ad hoc administrative tasks in laboratory.

*Non-complex [specimens] is further defined by the Anatomic Pathology Medical Director as clinical biopsies only. Specifically encompassing, but not limited to these tissue types: gastrointestinal, cardiac, breast, renal, dermatologic, bone and soft tissue.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Gross description and processing of a full range of non-complex surgical pathology specimens via direct transfer and/or minimal sectioning of tissue. Correct and finalize gross description section of surgical pathology report following transcription. As required, review gross description and case materials with medical staff at sign-out.
2. Demonstrates astute clinical judgment when handling patient material and reports.
3. Maintains diagnostic viability of specimens. Ensures correct patient labeling of all materials received. Ensures that requests for service by clinicians meets regulatory standards set by The Joint Commission and other agencies.
4. Appropriately triages tissue for different types of fixation or special studies.
5. Provides cross coverage for the Women's and Perinatal Pathology Specialist on all non-complex specimens.
6. Assist senior staff by assuring consistent and proper acquisition of tissue from specimens for departmental or inter-departmental purposes such as clinical studies, teaching, and research.
7. Receive, verify, and enter data of patient medical record information into LIS, assign surgical pathology accession numbers, edit and confirm patient charge information, using laboratory information system.
8. Generate barcode labels, label surgical specimens, print specimen cassettes and ensure quality assurance by cross checking specimen cassettes with correct specimen.
9. Respond to telephone inquiries regarding surgical specimens, patient test results and related information. Forward technical questions to the Technical Supervisor or appropriate person, as appropriate.
10. Provide instruction for pathology residents in surgical pathology technique. Orient and train medical residents, medical students, and less advanced technicians in Pathology Gross Room procedures.
11. As necessary, on a rotating basis, provides Saturday coverage for grossing surgical specimens.
12. Assist in keeping work area clean, organized, and in compliance with all safety regulations.
13. Maintains established department policies, procedures and objectives, including quality assurance, safety, environmental and infection control.
14. Follows all The Joint Commission Patient Safety Goals and related BWH Laboratory and Hospital Policies.
15. Perform all other duties and responsibilities as directed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree is required. A degree in biology, chemistry or related field is preferred.
• Previous experience (minimum of one year) in grossing surgical specimens is preferred.
• Other qualifications as described in the Federal Register, 42 CFR, Subpart M 493.1403 - 1495.

SKILLS/ ABILITIES/ COMPETENCIES REQUIRED:

• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Aptitude for attention to detail
• In-depth knowledge of the clinical field and medical terminology
• Strong analytical skills
• Strong interpersonal and verbal presentation skills