How to Be Histotechnologist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 8, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of a Histotechnologist is to prepare tissue specimens for examinations and diagnoses. This work is essential in the medical field, as it helps doctors identify diseases and assess patient health. By preparing and examining slides through microscopy, Histotechnologists aid in the diagnosis of cancer, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses.

The impact of this profession is far-reaching, as it helps to provide timely and accurate information to physicians which in turn can lead to more effective treatments. The importance of this profession cannot be overstated, as the quality of medical care largely depends on the accuracy and precision of the Histotechnologist's work.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Depending on the program, some histotechnologist jobs require an associate's degree or higher.
Enroll in an accredited histotechnology program. Accredited programs are available from community colleges and universities. Coursework typically covers topics such as medical terminology, histology and medical ethics.
Gain relevant experience, such as through internships or volunteer opportunities. This experience can provide essential hands-on training, which can be beneficial when applying for jobs.
Pass a certification exam. The American Society for Clinical Pathology offers a certification exam for histotechnologists. This exam is intended to demonstrate competency in the field.
Apply for jobs. After passing the certification exam, individuals can apply for histotechnologist jobs in hospitals, clinical laboratories and research centers.

The field of histotechnology is ever-evolving and requires continual advancement in order to stay ahead. For those that aspire to remain capable and current, it is important to pursue continuing education through professional development courses or certifications. Staying aware of current technology and trends in the field is also paramount, whether through attending conferences or reading up on the latest literature.

staying up to date on best practices and guidelines set out by regulatory bodies such as the College of American Pathologists can help ensure that one is equipped with the most up-to-date knowledge and methods. with the right combination of education, knowledge, and dedication, one can be sure to stay ahead and remain capable in the field of histotechnology.

You may want to check Genitourinary Pathologist, Anatomic Pathology Technician, and Medical Director for alternative.

Job Description

Prepare samples for microscopic analysis
Operate and maintain laboratory equipment
Perform laboratory tests, document results, and report findings
Collect, process, and stain tissue specimens
Examine slides under a microscope to detect cellular changes
Evaluate microscopic specimens to identify abnormal cells
Take photographs of microscopic slides
Prepare reagents and solutions for use in testing
Follow safety regulations and quality control procedures
Maintain laboratory records, reports, and logs

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of histology techniques and procedures
Knowledge of safety and sterile techniques
Ability to work effectively with a team
Ability to perform accurate and precise laboratory tests
Ability to maintain laboratory equipment
Knowledge of laboratory quality control procedures
Ability to accurately document results
Ability to communicate effectively with other healthcare professionals
Ability to use computers for data entry and analysis
Ability to troubleshoot laboratory equipment problems
Ability to provide patient care in a compassionate and professional manner
Ability to comply with regulations and standards set by government agencies, such as the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)

As a Histotechnologist, one of the most essential skills to have is the ability to work with precision and accuracy. This is important because histotechnologists are responsible for preparing and analyzing tissue samples for diagnosis and treatment. A Histotechnologist must be able to accurately measure and record data, as well as operate laboratory equipment such as microscopes and centrifuges.

they must understand the lab protocols for different types of tests and be able to follow them precisely. Due to the complexity of tissue samples, the accuracy of their work is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and successful treatment. Therefore, having a keen eye for detail and a high level of accuracy is essential for a successful histotechnologist.

Molecular Diagnostic Technician, Immunopathologist, and Cytopathologist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in histology laboratory techniques?
Describe a typical day in your current role as a histotechnologist.
How do you handle difficult tasks or challenging situations in the lab?
What is your experience with quality assurance and control in a histology setting?
How do you stay current on advances in histotechnology?
What procedures do you use to ensure accuracy and precision in the lab?
Tell us about the most complex task youve completed in a histology laboratory.
How do you prioritize tasks to ensure all duties are completed in a timely manner?
Describe a time where you had to quickly troubleshoot an issue in the lab.
What safety protocols do you practice when working in a histology laboratory?

Common Tools in Industry

Microtomes. A tool used to cut thin sections of tissue for histological examination. (Eg: Shandon Finesse Micromotorized Microtome)
Slides and Cover Slips. Slides are used to hold the tissue sections and cover slips are used to secure them. (Eg: SuperFrost Plus slides and #1. 5 cover slips)
Staining Reagents. Different staining reagents are used to enhance the visibility of the tissue sections under the microscope. (Eg: Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining reagents)
Embedding Molds. Molds are used to shape the sample before being cut into tissue sections. (Eg: Paraplast Plus embedding molds)
Microscopes. Microscopes are used to view the tissue sections and observe any abnormalities. (Eg: Nikon Eclipse Ni-U inverted microscope)
Photomicrograph Cameras. Cameras are used to capture images of the tissue sections for further analysis. (Eg: Nikon DS-Fi3 digital camera)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Credentialing Agency for Laboratory Personnel (NCA)
American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP)
American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS)
American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB)
National Society for Histotechnology (NSH)
International Society for Biological and Environmental Repositories (ISBER)
American Society of Cytopathology (ASC)
Clinical Laboratory Management Association (CLMA)
American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science Education and Accreditation (ASCLS-E&A)
Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI)

We also have Quality Control Analyst, Surgical Pathologist, and Forensic Autopsy Pathologist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Cytopathology. The study of changes to cells caused by disease, injury, or other factors.
Histochemistry. The branch of chemistry that deals with the chemical composition of tissues and cells.
Immunohistochemistry. The use of antibodies to detect antigens in tissues and cells.
Tissue Embedding. The process of laying tissue specimens on a wax block for cutting into sections for microscopic examination.
Microscopy. The use of a microscope to observe objects too small to be seen by the naked eye.
Cytogenetics. The study of the structure and function of chromosomes and genes.
Molecular Pathology. The use of molecular techniques to diagnose and treat diseases.
Hematology. The study of blood, including its components and diseases.
Immunology. The study of the body's immune system and its response to foreign substances, infections, and diseases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Histotechnologist?

A Histotechnologist is a laboratory professional who prepares and processes human tissue and body fluids for evaluation by a pathologist.

What qualifications are needed to be a Histotechnologist?

To become a Histotechnologist, one must usually complete an accredited histology program, which can be completed in two years or less, and must pass the national certification exam.

What does a Histotechnologist do?

A Histotechnologist's job mainly involves embedding, sectioning, staining, and mounting human tissue samples for microscopic evaluation. They may also be involved in the maintenance and operation of laboratory equipment.

What is the average salary of a Histotechnologist?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Histotechnologists in the United States is $51,770.

What type of environment does a Histotechnologist work in?

Histotechnologists typically work in hospital and clinical laboratory settings where they are responsible for preparing tissue slides for microscopic examination.