Histotechnologists prepare tissue samples for examination in various settings, including pathology laboratories, hospitals, and research institutions. They typically have a bachelor’s degree and additional training in microscopy and tissue handling. Their job involves preparing and preserving specimens, recording results, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They may work under pressure and be exposed to hazardous materials.
A histotechnologist is someone who specializes in preparing tissue samples for examination. These samples can be of animal or human origin, and histotechnologists can be found working in settings such as pathology laboratories, hospitals, veterinary facilities, and research institutions. Job prospects in this field vary, depending on what area someone wants to work in and the level of training received.
To become a histotechnologist, people usually earn a bachelor of science degree, supplementing with additional training in microscopy, tissue handling, and related topics. In some regions, a histotechnologist may need to be licensed by a government agency or professional organization, and in other areas, it may be possible to simply apply for work in a laboratory after completing school. People who see histotechnology as a career often belong to professional organizations in order to keep abreast of advances in the field and attend conferences, subscribe to trade journals, and participate in other enrichment activities.
The critical aspect of a histotechnologist’s job is preparing specimens for examination and preserving specimens. He can freeze, dry, or perform other processes to prepare samples for examination, as well as fix and stain them on slides and set up microscopes. Some histotechnologists also perform basic microscopy to identify areas of interest for examination by a pathologist. Other job responsibilities may include recording results, organizing samples in storage, maintaining protocol to keep the laboratory safe and clean, and maintaining laboratory equipment.
In some cases, a histotechnologist needs to be able to work under pressure. For example, a surgeon may take a biopsy during surgery, awaiting pathology results to decide what to do in surgery, or a histotechnologist may be part of a team responding to a disease outbreak, in which case he or she would need to move quickly to keep information current and relevant to other team members.
Working conditions for a histotechnologist can vary. Long hours are often required to be on your feet, and a histotechnologist is also routinely exposed to infectious and potentially hazardous materials, especially in high-security laboratories that handle samples of unknown or dangerous diseases. Hours are generally very regular as labs have specific hours of operation and a high degree of precision and coordination is required to work successfully in a lab environment, as well as a team attitude to keep the lab running smoothly and encourage cooperation.
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