Job Summary:

The Pathology Laboratory Aide will assist pathologists with autopsies; clean autopsy materials, autoclaves and biohazard wastes; maintain the large laboratory storeroom; and check and replenish supplies.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• None.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Assists pathologists with autopsies. Prepares materials, collects and labels specimens, disposes of wastes, cleans autopsy equipment and room, disposes of limbs, and transports toxicology copies to the laboratory. Sharpens scissors and maintains stretchers in a clean and functional capacity. Assists funeral directors with removal of cadavers and ensures proper identification and signature of the morgue logbook.
• Performs daily responsibilities including cleaning autoclaves and biohazard wastes and notifies housekeeping for disposal. Inspects morgue area, including the autopsy room and refrigerated room. Cleans areas and notifies housekeeping when floors require cleaning. Cleans the interior of the autoclave and the exterior surface and countertops and cabinets in the autoclave room. Maintains autoclave tapes and completes the checklist in the folder provided. Performs urinalysis testing. Stacks supplies in the laboratory storeroom. Obtains supplies from central services, pharmacy, and the hospital storeroom as requested. Delivers the used scrub suits and laboratory coats to the laundry and obtains clean replacements.
• Participates in quality-assurance activities.
• Reads, understands, and complies with laboratory policies, as written in the laboratory procedure manual, and all hospital policies, as described in the employee handbook.
• Notifies laboratory manager of unusual occurrences encountered during the performance of assigned duties.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize daily tasks .

Education and Experience:

• High school graduate or equivalent.
• Completion of on-the-job training with the ability to follow instructions.

Physical Requirements:

• Exposure to infectious materials, broken glass, and heat from the autoclave.
• Prolonged periods of standing, bending, and walking.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.