Responsibilities:

• Initially evaluates all non-gynecologic specimens requiring further review by a pathologist to determine a final diagnosis.
• Understands the cytologic manifestations of disease and is familiar with anatomy, histology, microbiology, and genetics associated with these as applicable.
• Conveys to the pathologist pertinent clinical information necessary to render an informed diagnosis.
• Prepares cytology specimens obtained by special procedures.
• Prepares cytologic specimens for microscopic evaluation. Uses specific instruments in the preparation of cytologic specimens, including troubleshooting.
• Assists in training of employees.
• Gives instructions in cytopreparation and when necessary to other employees.
• Communicates effectively regarding a broad range of laboratory information, including specimen collection, procedures, cytologic diagnosis and cytopathologic reporting.
• Performs quality control as required by current regulations and may oversee quality improvement functions in the laboratory. Designs and implements quality control functions in the lab. Documents and monitors quality control functions in the lab as required.
• Monitors and analyzes collected data required to comply with Federal regulations to detect any trends and/or outliers. Identifies issues and determines constructive changes to correct and improve lab operation when necessary.
• Keeps accurate records that reflect all quality control and quality improvement activities.
• Demonstrates necessary computer skills, has knowledge of computer programs and performs computer activities in order to effectively perform tests, enter diagnostic results, collect statistics or review patient information.
• Remains up to date in the field by reviewing scientific literature, attending professional society meetings and participating in other continuing education activities.
• Accessions, performs data entry of patient and specimen information, prepares and processes specimens as necessary.
• Assists with Laboratory Assistant/Clerical tasks as necessary.
• Maintains laboratory equipment, supplies and records.
• Monitors laboratory supplies and places order to maintain stock levels.
• Troubleshoots equipment that has failed and reports the need for service to the supervisor.
• Provides assistance as requested for administrative functions such as scheduling, ordering, test costing, evaluating computer procedures and processes, writing procedures and manual maintenance.
• Microscopically evaluates, interprets and renders a final diagnosis on gynecologic slides, for which no pathologist review is required.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education:

• Requires candidate to have successfully completed a nationally accredited School of Cytotechnology program and be certification eligible or meet the high complexity testing qualifications for a Cytotechnologist as outlined in the Federal Register, April 1995 (sections 493.1481, 493.1483, and 493.1485).

Certifications:

• Must be currently licensed in the State of Florida at the cytology technologist level.
• American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) or equivalent Certification. CT (ASCP) certification preferred.

Complexity of Work:

• All employees are expected to meet the standards of performance outlined in the Organizational-Wide Competencies listed below as applied to the position:
• World Class Service Orientation: Includes attitude, behavior, interpersonal skill, and problem solving that enable an employee to respond to internal and external customer needs and expectations in a positive manner.
• Adaptability: Includes teamwork and flexibility needed to fulfill job responsibilities including adapting to changes in work environment and accepting supervisory feedback.
• Efficiency and Effectiveness: Includes quantity and quality of desired work, as well as organization skills necessary to perform successfully.
• Essential Job Requirements: Includes adherence to all relevant policies, procedures, and guidelines affecting the work environment, including maintenance of required competencies and communication skills.
• Managerial Responsibilities: Includes overall accountability for assigned work group relative to operational goals, personnel requirements, and budgetary constraints.
• Note: The above stated duties are intended to outline those functions typically performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This description of duties is not intended to be all inclusive nor to limit the discretionary authority of supervisors to assign other tasks of similar nature or level of responsibility.

Work Experience:

• Demonstrated knowledge of anatomy, pathology, and medical terminology to be able to initially evaluate non-gynecologic slides prior to pathologist final diagnosis.
• Ability to accurately judge the need for consultation during slide evaluation and interpretation.
• Working knowledge of state requirements concerning chemical hygiene and bloodborne pathogens.
• Requires strong verbal and written communication skills as well as excellent customer service and organizational skills.
• Ability to interact at all levels of the organization and work independently as well as problem solve and troubleshoot.
• Demonstrated ability to direct and coordinate the efforts of others.

Physical Requirements:

• This position involves turning, stooping, bending, stretching, walking and standing.
• The average amount of lifting is 10 pounds with occasional carrying of objects up to 20 pounds.
• Sitting for short periods of time, the ability to file, move records, laboratory supplies, and equipment are also required physical duties.
• Communication by means of the spoken, written and typed word is required.
• Work requires finger dexterity and eye hand coordination to operate a microtome and a computer keyboard at a moderate skill level.
• Mental Demands: Ability to work at a fast pace and to prioritize multiple assignments/projects and respond to numerous requests; ability to resolve conflicts among staff and to work collaboratively with department director, physicians and other members of the Healthcare team; ability to ensure operational efficiency; ability to problem solve and make decisions; ability to exercise self-control and tolerate stress when dealing with multiple requests and/or conflicting demands from multiple customers.

Personal Protective Equipment:

• Use of personal protective equipment is required as there is a potential for exposure to biohazardous or infectious agents when drawing and processing specimens.
• Follows Standard Precautions using personal protective equipment as required for procedures.