Job Summary:
As per departmental guidelines, processes the specimens and stains the smears. Microscopically examines prepared, stained smears to detect structural abnormalities. Classifies smears based on cellular knowledge as normal (negative), abnormal, and diagnostic of cancer. Correlates surgical reports from HFH anatomic pathology with cytologic findings. Total number of slides screened not to exceed the limit set by CLIA 88.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Rotate on technical processing, cubicle position, and NGYN screening according to schedule set by leader/supervisor.
- For gynecological specimens (Pap smears), determine which cases should be further evaluated by the cytopathologist, formulate and issue diagnostic reports on normal (negative) cases, and perform follow-up triage on all cases routed to the pathologist before finalization of reports.
- Assist with instructional training of MLT, cytotechnology students, residents, fellows, and the orientation of new staff.
- Maintain competency in the use of information systems used for daily work.
- Maintain documentation related to daily workload, follow-ups, and rotation assignments.
- Attend fine needle aspiration procedures and assist the physician.
- Participate in the laboratory CME program.
- Participate in the laboratory's Quality Improvement program, which may include developing new or improved methods and procedures.
- Maintain laboratory equipment and document preventive maintenance and corrective actions.
- Answer the telephone courteously and professionally, relay messages for laboratory personnel, supervisor, and division head, and relay cytology results to clinicians.
- Perform any tasks related to cytopathology assigned by the supervisor, cytopathologists, and Division Head of Cytopathology.
Required Skills & Experience:
- Ability to sit for long periods at a microscope.
- Near acuity: ability to see clearly at 20 inches or less.
- Depth perception: ability to judge distance and space relationships.
- Accommodation: ability to adjust vision to bring objects into focus.
- Color vision: ability to distinguish and identify different colors necessary for job functions.
Required Education:
- Bachelor's degree with successful completion of a CAAHEP-accredited program in cytotechnology.
- Certificates in Thin Prep imaging and Thin Prep are required.
- For any start after 5/13, proficiency test results for 2024 or 2025 must be completed and available.
- At least 3 years of experience preferred.
- FNA adequacy experience is a plus.
- Primarily performing PAP screening on Thin Prep imager, with the possibility of FNA screening and onsite adequacy assessments.