Pathologists' Assistant

Job Description Summary

The Pathologists’ Assistant (PA), under the clinical supervision of the pathologists and management of the Anatomic Pathology Manager and Laboratory Director, examines, describes, and dissects all gross surgical specimens and appropriately triages tissue for special studies. Assures total compliance with CAP guidelines during all procedures. Must handle biohazardous and infectious material while following proper safety precautions. Works cooperatively with all hospital and laboratory staff through verbal and written communications in order to resolve problems, exchange information, receive instructions, establish protocols, and process information concerning cases.

Job Description

The Pathologists’ Assistant (PA), under the clinical supervision of the pathologists and management of the Anatomic Pathology Manager and Laboratory Director, examines, describes, and dissects all gross surgical specimens and appropriately triages tissue for special studies. Assures total compliance with CAP guidelines during all procedures. Must handle biohazardous and infectious material while following proper safety precautions. Works cooperatively with all hospital and laboratory staff through verbal and written communications in order to resolve problems, exchange information, receive instructions, establish protocols, and process information concerning cases.

Job Description:

Primary Responsibilities

• Processes all surgical specimens in such a way that the pathologist can make a correct diagnosis. Technical duties include:

  Monitors the intake of surgical specimens from the O.R.s and all ambulatory areas of the hospital.

  Performs gross description and dissection (complete range of surgical pathology specimens Levels 1-5) and submits appropriate diagnostic sections, and reviews cases with a pathologist when necessary

  Assists with intraoperative consultations including frozen section and touch prep preparation and staining

  Takes appropriate sections for Histology, inking necessary margins, and assuring proper fixation of all tissues

  Communicates effectively with histotechnologists, as necessary, to ensure adequate embedding and/or sectioning of tissue

  Able to troubleshoot: duplicate blocks, missing blocks, etc., Communication with providers to resolve technical issues related to specimens

• Other daily duties include: Cleaning of workbench, loading tissue processors, tracking and assisting with inventory
• Appropriately triages tissue for different types of fixation, decalcification and special studies, including tissue that may be sent out for microarray analysis, cytogenetics, flow cytometry electron microscopy, etc.
• Consistently adheres to established Laboratory and Hospital policies for Universal precautions, Chemical hygiene and Safety procedures. When handling blood and /or body fluids, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be utilized in order to minimize exposure to infectious diseases.

  Wears lab coat, gloves, goggles and protective devices as required when handling specimens.

  Follows safety policies for dress.

  Reports any safety hazards to the appropriate supervisor.

  Uses protective barrier equipment as required.

  Cleans and disinfects work area according to established protocol, during and at the end of assigned shift.

  Knows where to find material safety data sheets (MSDS) for items used to perform job.

  Properly disposes of contaminated and hazardous waste materials.

  Knows location and procedure for spill kits.

  Maintains a neat, organized work environment.

• Troubleshoot QA/QI problems that arise dealing with mislabeling of specimens, specimens missing in processing, etc., working with senior staff and other departmental personnel as necessary, as well as other clinical staff in the hospital.
• Able to perform all technical staff duties as needed, including accessioning, the printing of cassettes, specimen storage, disposal, and supply ordering.
• Professionally conducts oneself at all times (apparel, telephone etiquette, staff/peer interactions, etc.).
• Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned by the AP Manager, Medical Director, or Laboratory Director

Required Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of the basic sciences, and superior verbal and written communication skills normally acquired through completion of a Pathologist's Assistant Training Program, which includes a formal didactic program as well as a clinical internship, plus three years of related experience.
• Candidate must have a master’s degree from a Pathologist’s Assistant program and be ASCP certified. 1 year of experience is preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of human anatomy, physiology, and disease states. Extensive comprehension of medical terminology. High level of understanding of surgical techniques. Excellent dissection skills, requiring long periods of intense concentration and great attention to detail. A good working knowledge of histology procedures, and the ability to summarize clinical data. Ability to interact with pathologists, attending physicians, and a variety of laboratory personnel.
• Ability to stand long periods at the cutting bench. Ability to operate the Stryker saw.