Pathologist Assistant II, Surgical Pathology - PNE

Pathologist Assistant II, Surgical Pathology - PNE

At Northwestern Medicine, every patient interaction makes a difference in cultivating a positive workplace. This patient‑first approach is what sets us apart as a leader in the healthcare industry. As an integral part of our team, you’ll have the opportunity to join our quest for better health care, no matter where you work within the Northwestern Medicine system. We pride ourselves on providing competitive benefits: from tuition reimbursement and loan forgiveness to 401(k) matching and lifecycle benefits, our goal is to take care of our employees.

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The Pathologist Assistant II – PNE reflects the mission, vision, and values of NM, adheres to the organization’s Code of Ethics and Corporate Compliance Program, and complies with all relevant policies, procedures, guidelines and all other regulatory and accreditation standards.

In collaboration with the pathologist, the Pathologist Assistant II is responsible for the gross pathology description and sampling of biopsy and/or other selected complex surgical tissue specimens. The dissection sampling and description is performed in accordance with established procedures to aid the pathologist in establishing the diagnosis. The Pathologist Assistant II assists with resident training and provides a variety of activities in support of basic laboratory operations.

• Performs all duties as scheduled by the pathologist.
• Performs gross examination and dissection of surgical biopsies and large complicated specimens. Maintains specimen integrity and accurate legible specimen identification throughout all technical and clerical processes. Produces high‑quality, high‑volume work in a timely fashion, always finding better/more efficient ways to do things.
• Provides assistance with intra‑operative consultations. Cuts, stains, and cover slips cryostat sections for timely review. Documents appropriate turn‑around‑time tracking information.
• Prepares specimens for imaging and photographs specimens. Maintains imaging equipment and files. Organizes radiology files and photography.
• Participates in perinatal and adult autopsies as assigned. Reviews autopsy permit and patient charts. Performs related autopsy procedures, reviews gross and microscopic findings with attending, and prepares draft PAD as appropriate.
• Assists with orientation and instruction of pathology residents and medical students in Surgical Pathology and Autopsy procedures to include specimen description, dissections, dictation techniques, basic specimen handling, and use of Anatomic Pathology equipment. Provides clinical performance feedback on pathology residents.
• Prepares materials and participates in conferences with residents, pathologists, and clinical staff.
• Assists in grossing and distributing tissues and organs to approved researchers. Performs technical and clerical tasks related to research projects.
• Exercises independent judgment in the performance of technical responsibilities. Prioritizes technical workload based on assignment or established priorities, responds effectively to changes in workflow adjusting work to incorporate STAT requests or fluctuations in work volume.
• Practices the proficient and safe use of all equipment necessary for the completion of all duties and responsibilities within defined turn‑around times. Cleans, disinfects, performs, and documents routine equipment and workspace maintenance per SOP. Reports equipment or instrument malfunctions appropriately.
• Assists manager and/or pathologist in development and implementing new and special procedures or techniques. May assist in maintaining procedure manuals in accordance with practice guidelines and requirements of regulatory agencies.
• Participates in quality and process improvement efforts. Identifies ways to improve work processes and improve customer satisfaction. Makes recommendations to manager, implements and monitors changes as requested.
• Maintains a clean and safe work area. Follows established laboratory safety procedures in accordance with those regulatory bodies such as OSHA, FDA, EPA, etc. Observes and practices…