CLT 258 - Histotechnology Practicum

Upon successful completion of this course the student will be able to:

1.  Practice accepted procedures for the histology laboratory.

• Demonstrate knowledge of types of histological specimens usually submitted for gross and microscopic examination.
• Document and maintain lab records.
• Promote and contribute to universal bio-safety regulations as well as lab safety.
• Practice quality control in the histology laboratory as required.

2.  Perform common tissue processing methods.

• Demonstrate knowledge of human anatomy and physiology as related to histotechnology.
• Demonstrate knowledge of normal histology of human organs.
• Demonstrate knowledge of diagnostic terminology.
• Evaluate, accept, identify and label histologic specimens.
• Demonstrate knowledge of tissue processing methods, including a variety of fixatives used and how each relates to a specific entity or disease process to be diagnosed.
• Practice proper tissue processing protocols and embedding methods for paraffin block embedding with an understanding of proper dehydration, clearing and infiltrations reagents and methods.

3.  Operate and maintain common histological equipment.

• Operate and maintain a tissue processor.
• Operate and maintain a microtome.
• Process, embed, cut, stain, and coverslip all assigned specimens.
• Section, stain and coverslip frozen tissue specimens with a knowledge of cryostat function and maintenance.
• Operate and troubleshoot common laboratory equipment such as chemical recyclers, auto stainers, and cover slippers.
• Prepare and stain slides for cytological examination.

4.  Evaluate processed, sectioned, and stained tissue.

• Recognize properly differentiated hematoxylin and eosin stained tissue sections.
• Effectively troubleshoot hematoxylin and eosin stains.
• Effectively troubleshoot special stains.
• Evaluate histologic specimens for quality of preparation and staining.