Pathologists' Assistant-Per Diem
Brigham & Women's Faulkner Hospital(BWFH)

Job Info

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Acting quite independently under the supervision of the Anatomic Pathology Operations Manager, the Pathologists' Assistant performs a wide variety of tasks in processing of the full range of human surgical pathology specimens. This includes gross description and dissection, submitting appropriate diagnostic sections, and when necessary review of the case at sign-out with a pathologist. Provides instruction on gross anatomy, appropriate specimen orientation, tissue selection, cryotomy, and staining for stat intraoperative diagnosis by the pathologist.

• Organization of Grossing Room workflow and redirects focus of, residents, grossing technicians and other techical staff as needed.

• Monitors the intake of surgical specimens from the O.R.s and ensures specimens are appropriately assigned to staff.

• Coordinates PA and technical staff schedules to ensure adequate weekday coverage in both the grossing room and cytology prep room.

• Performs gross description and dissection (full range of surgical pathology specimens Levels 1-5), submits appropriate diagnostic sections, and reviews cases at sign-out with a pathologist when necessary; provides instruction on gross anatomy, appropriate specimen orientation, tissue selection, cryotomy, and staining for stat intraoperative diagnosis by the pathologist.

• Provides formal instruction for Grossing Technicians and/or residents in surgical pathology technique; orients and trains in Pathology Gross Room procedures.

• Contributes to PA staff competency assessments.

• Demonstrates astute clinical judgment when handling patient material and reports.

• Maintains diagnostic viability of specimens. Ensures correct patient labeling of all materials received. Ensures that requests for service by clinicians meets regulatory standards set by JC, CAP, and other agencies.

• Assists in frozen section examination; cuts and stains tissue to be examined by the pathologists.

• Photograph and x-ray specimens as needed for diagnostic study, research and clinical studies.

• Appropriately triages tissue for different types of fixation or special studies.

• Assist in proper acquisition of tissue from specimens for departmental or inter-departmental purposes such as clinical studies, teaching, and research.

• Assist in preparation of case materials or photographic material for research, conferences or special studies.

• Enter data of patient medical record information into computer, assign surgical pathology accession numbers, edit and confirm patient charge information, using laboratory information system.

• Load and activate program of tissue processors, as needed.

• Assist in keeping work area clean, organized, and in compliance with all safety regulations.

• Assists the Manager in assuring the Grossing Room is prepared for inspections by The Joint Commission, CAP or other regulatory agencies.

• Acts an on-site resource for supply and/ or service issues.

• Troubleshoot QA/QI problems that arise dealing with mislabeling of specimens, specimens missing in processing, etc., working with senior staff and other departmental personnel as necessary, as well as other clinical staff in the hospital.

• Exposure to biohazardous and radioactive materials.

• Exposure to formaldehyde and other hazardous chemicals/fixatives; highly infectious and dangerous organisms; noxious, unpleasant fumes.

• Frequent use of scalpels, razors and other sharp instruments. Risk is minimal when proper protocols and procedures are observed.

• Environment may include moving equipment parts and have background noise levels.

• May require lifting up to 50lbs or greater.

Qualifications
• Master's Degree from NAACLS accredited program required.

• AAPA approved Pathologists' Assistant Training Program.

• PA(ASCP) certification required. Recent graduates must obtain PA(ASCP) certification within 1 calendar year from date of training program completion.

• 1-2 years experience preferred

EEO Statement
Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital is an Affirmative Action Employer. By embracing diverse skills, perspectives and ideas, we choose to lead. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

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