Pathologists’ Assistant 2

Job Summary:

In accordance with the Mission, Vision, Values and strategic direction of PHSA, safety, including both patient and employee safety, is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at PHSA. As such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

The Pathologists’ Assistant II reports to the Team Lead or designate and works without general supervision (WWGS) when performing a variety of duties required with the gross examination of surgical and biopsy pathology specimens and post-mortem examinations for medical cases under the direction of a pathologist.

Duties/Accountabilities:

1. Prepares gross examination and completes dissection and dictation of surgical specimens including data collection and specimen receipt processes according to established policies and procedures. Obtains clinical history, laboratory data, x-rays and scans when indicated.
2. Prepares tissues for microscopic examination for intraoperative consultation, including orientation, cutting and staining.
3. Performs post-mortem examinations for medical purposes that may include external examination; evisceration; describing gross anatomical features; dissection; recording of organ weights and preparing tissues for histological processing.
4. Organizes clinical information and correct legal authorization for post mortem examination.
5. Maintains necessary and accurate records of work done by using worksheets, unit sheets, quality control records and other report forms either manually or electronically using the Laboratory Information System (LIS) or other necessary computer systems or programs.
6. Maintains equipment and work areas in clean and usable condition by performing regularly scheduled maintenance, calibration, quality control and troubleshooting of instrument problems. Documents and communicates all actions appropriately.
7. Accumulates, prepares, organizes, and files designated material such as specimens, photographs, and documentation for continuing education and research programs.
8. Communicates needs for new or updated equipment to supervisor and assists with equipment evaluation and selection.
9. Participates in maintaining adequate inventory of supplies and reagents including preparation of reagents.
10. Demonstrates to staff and students the required procedures performed in a section or sections of the laboratory. Assists with orientation of staff to section as required.
11. Participates in safety programs at the site by following safety procedures and using safety equipment.
12. Participates in Quality Management or Quality Assurance programs by providing information and input to Team Lead, Technical Practice Lead, Pathologist or Medical Director.
13. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education, Training and Experience
• Certification or eligible for certification with Canadian Certification Council of Pathologists’ Assistants (CCCPA) certification.
• Graduation from an approved Master’s Pathologist Assistant Program, two (2) years’ recent surgical and autopsy pathology experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Skills and Abilities
• Integrates best practice and current research evidence to support professional practice decisions and actions.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with clients, families, the public, medical staff and the members of the interdisciplinary team using, oral written and computer communication means.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively resolve conflict.
• Demonstrated ability to integrate and evaluate pertinent data (from multiple sources) to problem-solve and make decisions effectively.
• Applies the problem solving process demonstrating critical thinking and decision-making skills using a systems approach.
• Demonstrated ability to organize work, set objectives and establish priorities.
• Manages time and resources, implements activities to promote cooperation among the interdisciplinary team, supervises responsibilities of others, and collaborates across disciplines.
• Promotes staff morale, engagement, and risk-taking.
• Demonstrates creative planning for change and innovations, implementation of LM Labs policies or other protocols, and ongoing professional development of self and others.
• Demonstrated ability to foster teamwork and a commitment to excellence in the provision of client care.
• Demonstrated experience and skills with Laboratory information systems.
• Demonstrated data analysis skills including appropriate data analysis and reporting tools.
• Demonstrated ability in the use of e-mail and word processing.
• Ability to operate other related equipment as required in the specific practice area.
• Physical ability to perform the duties of the position.