Cytotechnologist

Job Summary

Primarily responsible for microscopic screening for detection of abnormal human cells and organisms, assisting with cytopreparations and Fine Needle Aspiration collections as needed, and computer result/data entry related to test orders and reporting. Will maintain a thorough knowledge of conditions appropriate to laboratory test performance, including specimen collection, transport preservation, processing, staining, screening, computer proficiency, specimen storage/disposal, and filing of slides/requisitions/QA materials. Will develop and maintain a high standard of operation and will act a resource person for new employees. The Cytotechnologist will report directly to the Cytology Supervisor and Pathologist in charge of the Cytology Division.
 

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Education: BS Degree in Cytotechology; or a BS Degree in Life Sciences and completion of CAHEA or HHS approved Cytology program.
Minimum Years of Experience: None
Substitutable Education & Experience: None
Required Certifications/Licensure: Must meet the Cytotechnologist requirements defined by DHHS in the Clinical Laboratory improvements Amendments of 1988 and any subsequent requirements; Must possess ASCP (CT) certification or be eligible to sit for the exam.
Required Training: None

Essential Functions

• Maintains a thorough knowledge of the field of cytology. 
• Demonstrates competence to provide developmentally appropriate care/treatment for the following patient population: infant (birth to 1 year), child (1 year through 12 years), adolescent (13 years through 17 years), adult (18 years to 65 years), and geriatric (over 65 years).
• Microscopic evaluate and mark any abnormalities or significant findings with appropriate ink markings.  Write diagnostic impression in appropriate form.
• Document slide statistics on appropriate form.
• Directly report all negative cases with the exception of the 10% of total negatives that are referred to the pathologist for a second review as pat of quality assurance program.
• Refer all screened gynecologic cases evaluated as BCC and above to the pathologist along with the written impression.
• Refer all non-gynecological cases with or without abnormal findings to the pathologist along with the written impression.
• Retrieve clinical information and previous history reports to attach to referred cases as appropriate.
• Confer with pathologist on daily cases and provide assistance as requested.
• Place all finished paperwork and slides in appropriate place for filing.
• Cytopreparatory functions including specimen receipt, identification, accessioning, processing by direct smear preparation, centrifugation, cytocentrifugation, cell block preparation or thin-layer preparation.
• Staining with appropriate standard series of solutions, coverslipping and labeling of slides.
• Perform periodic maintenance of stainline, instruments, equipment and microscopes and document such activities.
• Prepare reagent solutions as needed.
• Assist with training of new personnel insuring high standard of performance of their duties.
• Assist with evaluation of new equipment.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide assistance to the Cytology Supervisor with the collection and documentaion of QA data, writing or revising of procedures as assigned, and calculation of workload statistics.
• Assist Cytology Supervisor as requested in monitoring cost anaylsis data relative to procedures reagents, equipment, etc.
• Inform personnel responsible for ordering supplies of any observed shortages.
• Presentation of inservices for other laboratory sections when changing procedures that may involve that section.
• Performs assigned duties efficiently and effectively in a timely organized manner.
• Performs all other duties as assigned by authorized personnel or as required in an emergency, e.g. fire or disaster.
• Promote smooth exchange of specimens, reports and phone communication between nursing service, medical staff, physician office personnel and cytology department.
• Informs other laboratory personnel of circumstances that may effect the quality of work.
• Active participation the LMC Service Excellence Program with on-going demonstration of active contributions to service excellence relative to cytology services.
• Exemplify excellent customer relations, telephone manners, and willingness to assist patients, visitors, physicians, and co-workers.
• Maintenance of an optimistic, professional, career oriented demeanor.
• Adhere to all hospital policies and safety regulations.
• Exhibits thorough understanding of computer functions needed for daily use.
• Troubleshoots and resolves problems as situations require. Notifies system manager of significant problems.
• Ensure Hazardous Waste or Hazardous Waste Pharmaceuticals are discarded, stored, and managed with other compatible waste streams in containers that are properly labeled and closed prior to being shipped offsite for proper disposal.  Initial RCRA training is received within 6 months of the hire date and continuing with annual RCRA training.
• Enter final results into the computer for pathologist review and signature.