Histological Technician: Certificate

Certificate

CIP Code: 26.1201

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Mission

The mission of the Histological Technician program is to develop New York State-licensed pathology laboratory professionals. Educational experiences rely on sound and innovative pedagogical approaches, unique technical training, and robust clinical practice. We serve as a pathway for direct employment in the statewide healthcare community. Our mission aligns with the institutional mission by creating access to inclusive, diverse educational experiences through our fully-online certificate and associate degree programs.

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Competent in collecting, processing, and analyzing tissue specimens and other substances
2. Demonstrate proper lab safety techniques, and biohazard and chemical handling.
3. Perform histological processing of tissue specimen and other specimens including: preservation, fixation, embedding, sectioning and staining paraffin-embedded tissue
4. Recognize factors that affect procedures and results, and taking appropriate actions within predetermined limits when corrections are indicated
5. Perform and monitor quality control within predetermined limits
6. Perform preventative and corrective maintenance of equipment and instruments or refer to appropriate sources for repairs
7. Apply principles of safety
8. Demonstrate professional conduct and interpersonal communication skills with patients, laboratory personnel, other health care professionals, and with the public
9. Recognize the responsibilities of other laboratory and health care personnel and interact with them with respect for their jobs and patient care

Program Supervisor

Erin O’Hara-Leslie, Chairperson
Office: Decker Health Science Center, Room 217
Telephone: +1 (607) 778-55161
Email: oharaleslieek@sunybroome.edu

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Histotechnology professionals have diverse and multi-level functions in the areas of analysis and clinical decision-making, information management, regulatory compliance, education, and quality assurance/performance improvement wherever anatomic pathology testing is researched, marketed, developed or performed.  They perform, develop, evaluate, correlate and assure accuracy and validity of laboratory testing and procedures; direct and supervise anatomic pathology laboratory resources and operations; and collaborate in the diagnosis and treatment of patients.

Tasks performed by these professionals include preparing, mounting, cutting, and staining tissue sections used by pathologists to diagnose disease or other abnormalities, such as cancer.

Employers include:  hospital laboratories, physician offices, pharmaceutical companies, research facilities, armed forces, and veterinary clinics.

Histotechnology professionals practice independently and collaboratively, being responsible for their own actions, as defined by the profession.  The ability to relate to people, a capacity for calm and reasoned judgment, and a demonstration of commitment to the patient are essential qualities.

Pre-admission advising is recommended.