Cytotechnologist, Diagnostic Cytology Job Summary:

Reporting to the Section Head, Diagnostic Cytology, the Cytotechnologist, performs established cytology procedures/techniques/job functions including independent signing out of selected non-gynecological specimens showing unsatisfactory, negative and benign change.

Duties/Accountabilities:

1. Performs diagnostic cytology screening including independent signing out and diagnostic reporting of non-gynecological specimens showing unsatisfactory, negative and benign change, and flagging areas of abnormality for review by pathologist.
2. Performs a variety of preparatory procedures such as thin preps, plasma clots and albumin blocks. Participates in process improvements related to preparatory procedures by providing input to the Section Head and/or Chief Technologist.
3. Assists the pathologist in the collection of fine needle aspirate samples by performing duties such as preparing slides and triaging specimens for ancillary testing.
4. Maintains quality control of staining procedures using methods such as evaluating and documenting stain and specimen quality and providing this feedback to senior staff. Participates in internal and external proficiency testing as required.
5. Maintains section productivity by assessment of indicators such as the number of slides screened and maintenance of quality control information. Participates in process improvement projects to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the cytology service. Answers queries on laboratory procedures regarding specimen quality and quantity for submission for cytological examination.
6. Applies principles of universal precautions, biohazard, MSDS and laboratory safety to work environment. Participates in the lab safety awareness projects and maintains a safe and healthy workstation environment by following established safety procedures. Identifies and reports situations related to safety.
7. Operates and maintains laboratory instruments, microscopes and equipment and keeps instrument logs. Recognizes malfunctions in equipment and microscopes and initiates corrective action.
8. Keeps the welfare and confidentiality of the patient paramount at all times by following departmental policies regarding confidentiality such as the use of fax cover sheets and immediate computer log off procedures.
9. Maintains knowledge of current developments in Medical Technology through methods such as reviewing relevant literature, consulting with other professionals and attending relevant education programs as requested and approved in order to recommend new applications and contribute to improvement in services.
10. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education, Training and Experience
• Certification with the Canadian Society of Medical Laboratory Sciences (CSMLS) as a Cytotechnologist.
• Graduation from an Accredited School of Cytotechnology plus a minimum of two (2) years of recent related experience non-gynecological cytology screening or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
Skills and Abilities
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills including the ability to communicate effectively with all levels of staff, patients, both verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize and organize workload.
• Demonstrated knowledge of diagnostic cytology preparation procedures and current knowledge of the most recent advances in diagnostic cytology.
• Demonstrated ability to operate related equipment and use related software.
• Demonstrated physical ability to perform the job.