Histology technicians must be trained in the proper use of electron microscopes, as well as other histological testing equipment.
Histology technicians perform clinical lab tests that require cutting and staining tissue samples for examination under a microscope. They process tissue biopsies that are removed during surgery, and prepare them for examination by a pathologist. Because the job requires clinical knowledge and understanding of complex laboratory procedures, histology technicians must be properly trained in order to assist pathologists in correctly diagnosing patients. Most formal training programs combine classroom instruction and clinical study, so students grasp all the facets of a career in histology.
Description
Most histology technician programs are offered by vocational schools, community colleges or hospitals. Depending on the institution, students earn either an associate degree or certificate. Associate programs usually require two years of study, while certificate programs may be completed in a year. To enter a histology technician program, students must have a high school diploma or GED, and should have a background in biology, chemistry, math and computer science. When selecting a program to prepare for a career as a histology technician, it is important to choose one that is accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences to ensure that it meets professional standards within the field.
Curriculum
Histology technician programs instruct students in the procedures and techniques necessary to assist with histological lab testing. Students learn fix, process, cut and stain tissue specimens from patients. They also learn solve technical problems that may occur in the lab. Coursework in histology usually includes classes in immunohistochemistry, electron miscroscopy, cytology preparation, molecular pathology and enzyme histochemistry.
Clincial Rotation
Students who are training to become histology technicians must also complete a clinical rotation in histology. By performing the tasks necessary for work as a histology technician in a clinical setting, students gain hands-on experience in the field. They work with equipment normally used in histological testing, such as tissue processors, electron microscopes and embedding centers, so they are prepared directly for a job.
Certification
After completing an accredited training program, histology technicians may obtain certification. Certification verifies that histology technicians are competent and meet professional standards in the field, which often makes them more attractive to employers. The American Society for Clinical Pathology offers voluntary certification for histology technicians. Candidates must meet didactic and clinical education requirements and pass a national certification exam. After successfully completing the test, technicians may use the HTL(ASCP) initials after their name as evidence of their certification, which is good for three years. Histology technicians must participate in continuing education courses to maintain their certification.
Employment Opportunities
Job prospects for histology technicians who have received formal training and certification should be good, as there are more histology openings than there are qualified candidates to fill them. Histology technicians who have completed an accredited training program may find work at hospitals, clinics, laboratories and public health agencies. They may also find work in marine biology, veterinary pathology, industrial research and forensic pathology.
Tags: technicians must, histological testing, histology technicians, Histology technicians, accredited training, accredited training program
