Minimum Qualifications
The candidate must hold a minimum RSPH Level 3 Diploma in Anatomical Pathology Technology (or significant experience post level 3 qualification in an autopsy active Hospital/public mortuary) or pre‑2015 certificate and diploma in Anatomical Pathology Technology.
Profile
As a Qualified APT work under the direction of the Mortuary Manager and carry out autopsies, liaise with all stakeholders and keep all mortuary records / processes updated. Ensure your actions and the mortuary comply with all legislation and guidance in accordance with the Human Tissue Act 2004, all other relevant legislation, guiding principles and codes of practice. Support the Inner London South (ILS) Coroner Service, and the four Consortium boroughs consisting of Lambeth, Lewisham, Southwark and RBG. Participate and deliver a sensitive, caring and dignified service for the deceased, those bereaved, visitors and stakeholders. These services include but are not limited to:
- post‑mortems
- stock control
- maintaining records
- management and maintenance of plant and equipment
- safety management
- facilities and grounds management
- Key holder and responsible for site security
Responsibilities
- Act in accordance with the Human Tissue Act 2004, any subsequent updates and all other relevant legislation, guiding principles and codes of practice as directed.
- Maintain sterile and hygienic conditions throughout the building, including cleaning all associated tools and equipment.
- Conduct post‑mortems, manage stock control, maintain records and perform visual inspection of plant and equipment before use to ensure compliance with health and safety and to assist with delivery and management of the service.
- Carry out the evisceration of the deceased and advanced techniques as required, in accordance with Mortuary Management instruction.
- Undertake routine, forensic and specialist technical autopsy work and advanced techniques as required in the presence of the Pathologist.
- Assist with forensic, special and defence post‑mortem examinations and record and update all associated records relating to toxicology tasks.
- Implement, audit, check, monitor and record all activities in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures and HTA requirement, including the regular care and dignity of the deceased relating to body condition, location, infection control, keeping all records updated for audit control.
- Support the Mortuary Manager with control of mortuary provision and related areas of work, and respond to mass fatality and excess deaths incidents.
- In the absence of the Assistant Mortuary Manager undertake duties relating to the reception, identification, viewing, storage and release of bodies, updating all paper‑based and IT registers/systems.
- Ensure particular attention is paid to the security and return of valuables, incl. conduct of persons visiting the Mortuary for the purpose of delivering or collecting bodies.
- Maintain an up‑to‑date knowledge and awareness of recent developments in HTA and Pathology regulations.
- Provide anatomical pathology assistance to colleagues and pathologists.
- Be computer literate, as the role can involve the use of Microsoft packages.
- Be motivated, maintain confidentiality, have excellent communication/interpersonal skills, be well organized, present to clinical staff and accommodate the needs of a highly skilled team; remain professional and respectful of others at all times.