Trainee Anatomical Pathology Technologist

Please see supporting information for full Job Description. Key Tasks & Responsibilities: Under supervision participates in the provision of an effective service (technical and administrative), as appropriate, to the requirements of the Mortuary department. Under supervision prepare deceased (Primary autopsy opening and block dissection), and assist the Consultant Histopathologists and Home Office Pathologists during post mortem examinations. Under supervision carries out daily recording of post mortem examination details, and the maintenance of other databases and mortuary records, as required.

Receive first calls form families following a death and provide guidance on practical procedures. Under supervision assists in receiving deceased in strict accordance with mortuary procedures. Under supervision carries out the identification, labelling and transfer of samples removed at post mortem to the histology laboratory and other laboratories. Under supervision perform re-construction of deceased (including injuries) after post mortem examination, ensuring that deceased are in an acceptable state for release.

Under supervision carries out the discharge of the deceased in accordance with the law and departmental procedures. Under supervision assists in taking photographic images in the post mortem room when required. Ensure images are respectful and that patient confidentiality is maintained. Maintain the security of deceased belongings, valuables and any other personal items received into the Mortuary.

Under supervision prepares deceased for viewing by relatives. When necessary, provide assistance to relatives during viewing. Deal sympathetically with bereaved relatives by showing a caring and professional attitude at all times. Ensure the decontamination of the post mortem room, and other designated dirty activity areas, decontaminating all equipment used during post mortem examinations in accordance with Department protocols.

Assist with the monthly woodland burial for non viable fetus (NVFs). Support the bereavement midwife and assist with the organisation of hospital contract funerals for stillborns/NVFs. Any other duties appropriate to the post. COMMUNICATION AND TEAM WORKING Behave in a professional manner at all times.

Ensure excellent communication exists in the department and, with the service manager, promote a positive working environment and image of the mortuary. Maintain good relations with the Coroners office, police, ambulance, funeral directors, Trust medical staff, Administrators, mortuary and pathology staff and department manager. Liaise with the Coroners Officers to ensure the requirements of the Coroner are performed in a timely and efficient manner. Liaise with the Histopathologists to ensure that post mortems are performed and the necessary documentation completed in accordance with department protocols Follow procedures with respect to all visitors to the Mortuary, including Trust portering staff.

Attend and participate in departmental meetings. Report any faulty equipment to senior staff with regard to safety, hygiene and functional efficiency. CLINICAL AND PROFESSIONAL Enroll on an approved Royal Society of Public Health & Hygiene training programme to attain the Level 3 Diploma in Anatomical Pathology Technology. Demonstrate a good working knowledge and understanding of the Human Tissue Act and, comply with the HTA regulations at all times.

Assist, as required, in the production data for internal and external audit purposes. Participate in internal quality control procedures and ensure that adequate and accurate records are kept. Maintain professional competency through attending relevant scientific meetings and courses. Maintain and record CPD activities.

Other duties as appropriate to the post. Maintain a high level of personal hygiene and appearance at all times. ADMINISTRATION Ensure strict adherence to documentation protocols within the mortuary. Under supervision receive and record details of deceased from both the Hospital and surrounding district (Local Authority deaths) under the jurisdiction of the coroner.

Under supervision record the transfer of deceased to authorised undertakers and the authorised receipt and despatch of both adult and paediatric deceased from and to other Trusts. Under supervision liaise with other organisations to facilitate the collection of donated organs. Assist the service manager/senior staff in the maintenance of standard operating procedures, risk assessments and COSHH assessments, as appropriate and if required. POLICY AND SERVICE DEVELOPMENT Work within the policies and procedures adopted by the Trust, Pathology and the mortuary at all times.

HEALTH & SAFETY Comply at all times with the Mortuary and Trust Health and Safety Policies. To work under the Human Tissue Act, ensuring all legislation is adhered to. To ensure relevant regulations are implemented in accordance with Trust Safety Policies.