Lead Cytotechnologist

Processes cytology specimens to produce quality slides. Examines cells on slide preparations for evidence of normality, abnormality and other pathological conditions. Oversees processes within the Cytology Department for processes and staff.

• Procedures, prepares and processes specimens to ensure maximum cellular retrieval while maintaining specimen integrity and identity.
  • prepares specimens, stains and processes slides for all cytological specimens in accordance with procedures
  • determines appropriate method of processing to aid in maximum cellular retrieval and specimen integrity
  • demonstrates and coordinates multiple tasks with precision and flexibility to provide quality slides within minimum turnaround time
  • serves as a resource person for cyto prep personnel
  • identifies problems, collects data to establish facts and draw valid conclusions; takes appropriate corrective action to resolve issues
  • assists pathologist/radiologist in collection of fine needle specimens
• Demonstrates skills in utilization of Pathology, LIS and HIS computer system functions.
  • uses HIS effectively to retrieve information and process supply or work orders
  • accesses LIS for communication functions
  • demonstrates proficiency in use of the system intranet for informational purposes
  • works with pathology software on a daily basis to accurately enter and extract information
  • Uses the pathology software to document tracking issues, QA, etc.
• Applies knowledge of pathological disease states to evaluate microscopic cell preparations. Correlates with patient history to determine the presence of abnormalities.
  • demonstrates a knowledge of principles of cellular development of human life and disease stages
  • screens gynecological slides accurately, reports results in accordance to current system and refers abnormal cellular findings to a pathologist
  • screens non-gynecological smears accurately, records findings and refers all slides to a pathologist in a timely manner
  • verifies results prior to release
  • reads and comprehends final results to abstract pertinent information and statistics
  • determines course of action to be taken based on analysis results; performs billing, documentation or ordering of reflexed tests as appropriate
  • interprets an extensive variety of diagnoses
• Utilizes and maintains the Cytyc imager system to screen cytology slides.
  • maintains imaging system and backup data according to manufacturer's guidelines
  • evaluates error logs after each imager run
  • maintains error rates due to technical problems (slides that fail imaging) at less than or equal to 7%
  • troubleshoots, reads and interprets error codes, finds resolution to problems, documents appropriately
• Coordinates quality control activities to comply with regulations and guidelines.
  • responsible for performance, evaluation and documentation of appropriate quality control procedures
  • recognizes, takes corrective action to resolve, and documents quality control issues
  • maintains policy and procedure manuals to assure compliance
  • assures that remedial actions are taken when test systems deviate from established performance standards
• Interfaces with members of section, manager, pathologists and other healthcare providers to gather and exchange information to expedite the delivery of laboratory services and results
  • communicates, in a timely and professional manner, with physician and office personnel regarding physician orders and specimen integrity issues
  • responds positively to requests for assistance in the collection of cytologic specimens, e.g. fine needle aspirates
  • interacts with pathologists in active professional discussion involving the applied knowledge of cytologic findings and clinical interpretations, while maintaining utmost confidentiality
  • provides technical assistance and expertise to staff to resolve technical and operational problems
• Facilitates the timely progression of cytology cases through the Pathology department.
  • coordinates and organizes work processes to maintain operational preparedness
  • monitors the progression of cases to minimize turnaround time
  • responds positively to priority requests for assistance in the collection of cytologic specimens, e.g. fine needle aspirates
  • maintains files and slides to facilitate easy and reliable retrieval
  • maintains case turnaround times to comply with CAP guidelines
• Maintains technical and theoretical expertise in the field of cytology in order to serve as a resource to staff.
  • remains current in developments in the field of cytology
  • incorporates critical thinking and…