University of Washington Human Resources

Anatomic Pathology Technician

UW CODE AND REPRESENTATIVE GROUP

BASIC FUNCTION

Prepare specimens and perform examination by microscope, instrumentation, computer, and current methodology; guide and instruct Anatomic Pathology Technician Trainees, laboratory assistants and others.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Under general supervision, prepare specimens for examination by microscope instrumentation, computer, and current methodology; acquire, examine and prepare specimens for analysis; provide procedural information and specimen protocol to medical or academic staff, personnel from referring institutions/agencies, and new employees.

TYPICAL WORK

Monitor and perform quality control of specimens; determine disposition of improperly handled specimens; identify problems, take corrective action, notify supervisor of action taken and monitor follow-up solutions;

Perform procedures in pathology services, such as histology, flow cytometry, renal biopsy, electron microscopy, autopsy, molecular pathology and immunocytochemistry;

Perform histology procedures pertaining to preparation of microscopic slides, such as processing, embedding, microtomy, hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) staining, special staining, and coverslipping slides;

Review requests to determine appropriate techniques or procedures for various types of specimens; assist physician at patient bedside with collection and preparation of biopsies and aspirates; advise pathologist/resident as to specimen adequacy for processing;

Process specimens; cut thick and thin sections; process photographic prints;

Assist in the autopsy for removal of organs; prepare body for transport; preserve and store specimens; provide disposal of fresh and fixed tissue; retrieve and prepare specimen for scheduled conferences and classes;

Perform immunoperoxidase and immunofluorescence procedures; determine correct concentration of new antibodies using checkerboard titration;

Process specimens and perform flow cytometric analysis;

Evaluate cell cycle data and histograms; obtain supporting literature according to tumor type;

Perform molecular pathology tests; provide results for interpretation by extracting DNA from specimen; amplify DNA target site; identify the presence of a virus or bacterium with specific probes;

Maintain safe working environment by following all safety regulations;

Instruct and orient pathology residents; provide procedural information and specimen protocol to medical staff, personnel from referring institutions, and new employees; identify appropriate protocol for specimen distribution;

Train new employees in pathology procedures, preparation of reagents, and in the proper use and theory of laboratory instrumentation;

Analyze and determine cause(s) of instrument malfunction, notify supervisor, and take corrective action; maintain quality control of instruments; evaluate new products and instruments to provide input in decision process;

Record complete patient information; maintain comprehensive records of procedures;

May assist in developing policies and procedures and developing budgets;

Perform related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Certified, or certified within two years from the date of hire, at the Technician level by a nationally recognized certifying agency such as the American Society of Clinical Pathologists, the American Society of Clinical Laboratory Scientists or the Microscopy Society of America

OR

equivalent education/experience.

CLASSIFICATION HISTORY

11/12/1993: New Class
07/09/1999: Revise Class/MQ
06/01/2005: CSR Class Conversion
03/08/2011: Revise Class/New CBU