A histology technician collects and preserves samples of diseased cells and tissues for microscopic examination. They are trained to determine which specimens are viable and monitor their integrity throughout the analytical process. Attention to detail, proficiency in laboratory equipment, and a two-year associate degree are required.
A histology technician, also known as a histotechnician or histology technologist, creates slide presentations of diseased cells and tissues for microscopic examination. She collects samples under the direction of laboratory or clinic staff. Samples are analyzed by doctors, usually pathologists.
After collecting the samples, the histology technician is instructed on how to preserve them. Depending on the proposed disposition of the samples, they can be frozen or preserved in paraffin or plastic. A common technique called staining can be used on slide samples to help identify different structures in tissues.
The technician is trained and authorized to determine which specimens are viable. Samples under her responsibility usually consist of samples she has collected along with samples sent in by other medical professionals. Each sample may require specialized handling to maintain viability.
As samples are examined, the histotechnician monitors their integrity to ensure they remain valid throughout the analytical process. This usually involves performing quality control and quality assurance tests. Equipment, tools and instruments require regular inspection to ensure compliance with industry standards and test accuracy.
In some laboratories, the histology technician is required to develop and implement test procedures himself. This requires advanced technical knowledge as well as in-depth knowledge of the fabric type to be tested. Procedures developed by technicians are often reviewed prior to implementation by pathologists familiar with the tissues in question to ensure they meet strict accuracy guidelines.
Attention to detail is a necessary requirement for success as a histology technician. Every aspect of your work, from sample collection to preliminary analysis and final testing, depends on accuracy. Maintaining error-free records of test procedures is vital to arriving at correct laboratory conclusions.
Detailed reports of laboratory results and test procedures are regularly compiled by a histology technician. These reports are usually published internally or online for review by the medical community. The technician may be called upon to review other people’s documentation for clarity.
In addition to being proficient in using light and electron microscopes, a histology technician is expected to be comfortable using other laboratory equipment. This equipment may include embedding centers and tissue processors. Familiarity with using computerized and laboratory databases is also helpful.
The educational requirement for a histology technician is a two-year associate degree that includes a significant number of biological or chemical science courses. Successful completion of an accredited histotechnology certification program, along with two years of laboratory experience, may also be required. Familiarity with laboratory procedures, healthcare environments, or clinical trials is desirable.
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