What are the responsibilities and job description for the Pathology Lab Assistant position at Trinity Health Michigan?
SUMMARY
Prepares tissues and cells for technical analysis and pathologist review. Preparation includes accurate data entry of patient, physician and financial demographics; assigning unique case numbers to each specimen; assigning correct specimen collection information and protocol assignment which are tied to charges. Grossing of specimen which includes specimen description and dimensions. Specimen processing requires correct usage of chemicals as well as proper use of processing/staining equipment. Preparation of tissue for frozen section diagnosis. Active communication with physicians and staff for order clarification and address patient care items.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Minimum: Associate's degree
Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree with emphasis in the sciences such as biology and anatomy.
Related Experience
Minimum: Perform analytical functions such as calculating, weighing and correlating of information.
Preferred: Tissue cutting skills, anatomical lab experience. Six months experience in allied health field.
Other Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Minimum: Must be able to perform basic data entry. Strong interpersonal skills with ability to operate basic lab equipment i.e. centrifuge).
Preferred: Computer skills, customer service skills, troubleshooting skills.
Computer Competency
Shows how to use (through a competency assessment) a standard desktop and windows-based computer system, including a basic understanding of email, e-learning, intranet and computer navigation. Ability to use other software as required to perform the essential functions of the job.
Physical/Mental
Minimum: This position does repetitive tasks as numbering of specimens and requires concentration when handling toxic chemicals. This position has constant exposure to infectious disease, hazardous chemicals as xylene, acetone, alcohol, formaldehyde, sharps and fumes. This position requires considerable walking, standing, bending, and occasional lifting of objects up to 40 pounds.
WORKING CONDITIONS
The conditions are fast paced with moderate to high stress. It is volume driven work, and a high level of quality is necessary. It requires the ability to multi-task, prioritize and organize. The conditions require the ability to work as a team and independently within each shift of work.
AGES OF PATIENTS SERVED
Adolescents Adults Geriatrics
- Must be able to perform patient registration and ordering of tests.
- Must be able to label cassettes and/or slides with correct case identifiers.
- Must be able to operate equipment such as centrifuge, cryostat, slide stainers, and tissue processors.
- Must be able to gross specimen and complete a gross description utilizing voice recognition software.
- Must be able to prepare Pap smear slides and other cytologic fluid preparations.
- Must be able to prepare frozen section slides.
- Must be able to properly handle hazardous chemicals as xylene, acetone, alcohol, formaldehyde.
- Must be able to properly handle sharps and equipment containing sharps.
- Must be able to perform analytical functions as calculating, weighing and correlation of information.
- Must be able to perform detailed tasks within a volume-based environment.
- Ability to organize work and prioritize work to meet patient and customer needs.
- Ability to effectively communicate with patients, clinicians, and laboratory staff members and provide excellent customer service.
- Ability to utilize low volume work time to complete additional tasks without prompting.
- Ability to work independently as well as a positive team member and flex accordingly.
- Ability to perform other duties as assigned.
DISCLAIMER
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. The listed duties may be changed at the discretion of the incumbent’s supervisor.
1. An earned associate degree in a chemical or biological science or medical laboratory
technology, obtained from an accredited institution, OR
2. Education/training equivalent to the above that includes the following:
- 60 semester hours or equivalent from an accredited institution. This education must include 24 semester hours of medical laboratory technology courses, OR 24 semester hours of science courses that includes six semester hours of chemistry, six semester hours of biology, and 12 semester hours of chemistry, biology or medical laboratory technology in any combination, AND
- Laboratory training including either completion of a clinical laboratory training program approved or accredited by the ABHES, NAACLS, or other organization approved by HHS (note that this training may be included in the 60 semester hours listed above), OR at least three months of recorded laboratory training in each specialty in which the individual performs high complexity testing.
Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Trinity Health is one of the largest not-for-profit, Catholic healthcare systems in the nation. Built on the foundation of our Mission and Core Values, we integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion in all that we do. Our colleagues have different lived experiences, customs, abilities, and talents. Together, we become our best selves. A diverse and inclusive workforce provides the most accessible and equitable care for those we serve. Trinity Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by law.
