Pathologist Assistant Contingent Days

Description

Under general direction of a pathologist, assists in all aspects of anatomic pathology. Describes and examines surgical specimens and prepares such specimens for histology processing. Performs autopsy prosection, obtains appropriate specimens for microscopic evaluation and describes findings. Assists in preparation, processing and determination of adequacy of fine needle aspirates and renal biopsies. Participates in seminars and provides instruction for medical and pathologist assist students concerning technique and protocol in autopsy and surgical pathology.

1. Under the direction of a pathologist, performs prosections and dictates gross description of surgical specimens.
2. Ensures that appropriate legal permission has been obtained to perform autopsies. Assists pathologist and clinicians in obtaining permission if necessary.
3. Prepares abstracts of medical records and presents abstracts to pathologists prior to beginning an autopsy.
4. Maintains autopsy room, associated facilities and all instruments and equipment in a clean and safe condition as specified by department safety and OSHA guidelines. Obtains and transports supplies necessary to operation of autopsy and gross rooms.
5. Transfers and handles body from morgue to autopsy table.
6. Conducts autopsy from start to finish including description, prosection, selection, collection and submission of designated specimens for microscopic evaluation, and special studies.
7. Conducts Training seminars, instructing pathologist assist students in technique and protocol of autopsy and gross surgical pathology. Demonstrates gross pathology protocol and procedures to new residents.
8. Prepares fine needle aspirates and renal biopsy specimens for examination utilizing appropriate laboratory techniques and protocols. Examines specimens for adequacy.
9. Evaluates and provides feedback on student projects.
10. May assist with sections/specimens utilizing cryostat, stains and coverslip slides; maintains frozen section equipment.
11. May perform and/or assist pathologist or designate in performance of tasks related to medical photography.
12. May maintain procedure manuals in accordance with practice guidelines and requirements of regulatory agencies.
13. May serve anatomic pathology functions across any DMCUL surgical site within the Detroit Market.

1. Graduate from a Baccalaureate Pathology Assistant program or successful completion of a post bachelor's program from an approved school of Pathology Assistants. OR Bachelor's degree in sciences with background in physiology and anatomy with three to five years experience in pathology.
2. Certification by American Association of Pathology Assistants (AAPA) or American Society of Clinical Pathologists (ASCP) as a Pathology Assistant, or must successfully attain certification within 6 (six) months of employment as a Pathology Assistant to retain employment at the DMCUL.