Cytotechnologist

About the role

Basic Function and Scope of Responsibility

The Cytotechnologist evaluates cytological samples using manual and/or automated microscopes to diagnose cell patterns on cytologic specimens including Pap smear, Non-gynecologic and FNA specimens.

Essential Job Duties

• Perform essential functions as described in QCD defining Cytotechnologist requirements for a High Complexity Lab.
• Determines specimen adequacy for all cytology and histology samples.
• Examines and evaluates cell samples for normal cell patterns, non-malignant or benign conditions that might exist such as microorganisms, therapeutic change, inflammation, repair and hyperplastic changes and makes appropriate recommendations on the report.
• Examines and evaluates cell samples for the presence of abnormal cells.
• Determines severity and cell type of the abnormality and if needed, provides criteria to identify origin. Makes appropriate recommendations for the report.
• Uses recognized terminology to document and transmit the diagnosis/findings in the laboratory information system.
• Documents daily, weekly, and monthly workloads.
• Maintains legal limits for all types of microscopic work.
• Reviews cases at the microscope and discusses diagnostic criteria with pathologists, senior cytotechnologists and other cytotechnologists as needed.
• Identifies individual screening issues observed through quality control activities.
• Completes all procedures expected in the scheduled time without loss of work quality.
• Performs and documents daily, monthly, quarterly, & annual maintenance.
• Adheres to standard operating procedures, work instructions, and policies.
• Notifies management regarding trends, changes, or problems as they occur.
• Follows HIPAA regulations.
• Follows the College of American Pathologist (CAP) requirements for performing proficiency testing and reporting results.
• Receives a passing grade on any state/national exam deemed necessary to evaluate specimens.
• Participates in laboratory quality management functions.

Experience and Qualifications

• ASCP registration or eligible
• Successful completion of Thin Prep & Imager Training
• Pass the national cytology proficiency exam or equivalent
• Meet qualifications as described in CLIA 88', 42 CFR Part 493 Cytotechnologist for Cytology Laboratories Performing High Complexity Testing.

Education

• BS or BA degree
• One year in an AMA approved Cytotechnology program or a 2+1 program.

Competencies

• Possess high standards for organization and quality.
• Knowledge of current medical terminology to perform various laboratory tests and to communicate with physicians, staff, and patients.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment and testing to perform quality control checks and troubleshooting of instrumentation.
• Knowledge of safety requirements to provide instructions and to recognize hazardous conditions.
• Ability to read and understand information about instrumentation in the laboratory field.
• Ability to read, comprehend and create instructions, correspondence, reports and memos.
• Ability to interact and communicate with a variety of people, both on a one-on-one basis and in meetings and group presentations; must be able to relate to and work with ill, emotionally upset, and sometimes-hostile people. Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to anticipate and react calmly to emergency situations.
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, decimals, compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs.
• Ability to follow direction and to apply common-sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
• Ability to think logically in order to troubleshoot, analyze situations, and make appropriate decisions.
• Proficient computer skills, including working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, e-mail systems, and web-based programs.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Other

• Ability to work in a fast-paced laboratory & office environment.
• Strong sensory skills, such as visual acuity, good hearing, and dexterity.
• Use of hand and wrist repetitive motion to position and operate microscope
• Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time in static position.
• Ability to occasionally push, pull, lift, move, and/or carry up to 3 lbs.
• Good speaking and listening skills.
• Ability to perform focused work with close attention to detail.
• Ability to operate office equipment, including computers, copiers, fax machines, and phones.
• Ability to interact with others, both in person and through phone, e-mail, and written correspondence.

Compensation

• $45.00-$65.00 per hour

What we offer

• Excellent full time benefits including comprehensive medical coverage, dental, and vision options
• Life and disability insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid vacation and holidays