Histology AideAt — Antech Diagnostics
The Histology Aide supports the daily operations of Antech Diagnostics’ histopathology laboratory by performing essential pre-analytical tasks that ensure specimen integrity and workflow efficiency. This entry-level role is ideal for individuals interested in veterinary diagnostics and laboratory sciences, offering hands-on experience in a regulated, high-throughput environment.
Tasks:
1. Specimen Reception and Verification
• Receive and inspect incoming tissue samples for proper labeling and fixation
• Confirm specimen integrity and match with requisition forms or LIS entries
• Flag discrepancies or damaged specimens for supervisor review
2. Cassette and Slide Preparation
• Print and label tissue cassettes and microscope slides using approved systems
• Organize materials for embedding and microtomy workflows
• Ensure accurate identification to prevent diagnostic errors
3. Workflow Support for Histotechnicians
• Assist with embedding setup, slide drying, and staining preparation
• Transport specimens and slides between workstations
• Monitor batch flow and prioritize urgent or STAT cases
4. Laboratory Maintenance and Inventory
• Clean and disinfect work surfaces and equipment per biosafety protocols
• Restock consumables (e.g., cassettes, slides, reagents) and notify leads of shortages
• Dispose of biological waste and chemical byproducts in compliance with safety standards
5. Documentation and Data Entry
• Log specimen details and processing steps into the Laboratory Information System (LIS)
• Maintain accurate records for traceability and audit readiness
• Support quality control by reporting anomalies or workflow interruptions
6. Safety and Compliance Adherence
• Use PPE consistently and handle chemicals (e.g., formalin, xylene) with care
• Follow OSHA, CAP, and internal SOPs for biosafety and specimen handling
• Participate in ongoing training and competency assessments
Training:
1. Specimen Intake and Accessioning
• How to verify, label, and log incoming tissue samples
• Chain-of-custody protocols and LIS usage
• Handling fixatives and understanding specimen preservation requirements
2. Cassette and Slide Preparation
• Proper labeling techniques to prevent diagnostic errors
• Loading and organizing cassettes for embedding
• Slide handling, drying, and storage protocols
3. Lab Safety and Biosafety Procedures
• PPE usage and chemical handling (e.g., formalin, xylene)
• Waste disposal and spill response
• OSHA and CAP compliance basics
4. Support for Embedding, Microtomy, and Staining
• Observational training on paraffin embedding and sectioning
• Assisting with slide staining and cover slipping
• Recognizing common artifacts and quality control flags
5. Equipment Familiarization
• Operation and maintenance of cassette printers, slide labelers, and drying ovens
• Cleaning schedules and calibration checks
• Reporting malfunctions or inconsistencies
6. Communication & Workflow Coordination
• How to escalate discrepancies to histotechnicians or pathologists
• Prioritizing urgent cases and managing batch flow
• Documentation etiquette and interdepartmental collaboration
Learning Outcome:
1. Specimen Handling Proficiency
• Learn how to preform accurate and compliant handling of biological specimens, including labeling, fixation, and preparation for histological processing.
2. Workflow and Equipment Familiarity
• Gain hands-on experience with histology lab workflows and tools such as cassette printers, embedding stations, and microtomes, supporting efficient case throughput.
3. Regulatory and Safety Compliance
• Apply biosafety protocols and regulatory standards (e.g., OSHA, CAP, internal SOPs) to maintain a safe and audit-ready laboratory environment.
4. Data Integrity and Documentation
• Accurately log specimen data and processing steps in the Laboratory Information System (LIS), ensuring traceability and minimizing diagnostic errors.
5. Interdisciplinary Collaboration
• Develop communication and coordination skills by supporting histotechnicians, pathologists, and lab supervisors in a high-volume diagnostic setting.