Course Title: Perform histological tests

National Element Code & Title:

MSL975003A Perform histological tests

Performance Criteria:

1.1.Check and match specimens and request forms before they are accepted
1.2.Return specimens and request forms that do not comply with requirements to their source with reasons for non-acceptance 1.3.Process routine and non-routine specimens according to enterprise protocols
1.4.Log acceptable specimens, applying required document tracking mechanisms 1.5.Dispatch specimens to referral laboratories as required
1.6.Store specimens appropriately until required for testing

Performance Criteria:

2.1.Arrange tissues and request forms in cut-up area
2.2.Label tissue cassettes as required to maintain identity during subsequent procedures 2.3.Prepare containers for transport of tissues to processor
2.4.Select tissue fixative to prepare tissue for subsequent procedures
2.5.Weigh organs and count tissue chips and shavings
2.6.Take notes of gross features of specimens during cut-up if required

Performance Criteria:

3.1.Select processor program and reagents 3.2.Inspect processor reagents for deterioration and adequate volume
3.3.Follow processing requirements for non-routine techniques, including histochemistry 3.4.Monitor processor regularly during processing sequence where appropriate

Performance Criteria:

4.1.Select embedding medium that is compatible with infiltrating agent
4.2.Check that temperature of embedding medium is suitable for embedding process 4.3.Check that volume of embedding medium is sufficient for uninterrupted embedding of processor load
4.4.Embed tissue in correct orientation 4.5.Apply procedures to prevent cross-contamination between patient tissues 4.6.Allow block to solidify according to requirements of embedding medium

Performance Criteria:

5.1.Check that flotation bath is ready and satisfactory for use
5.2.Prepare microtome and associated equipment to accommodate requirements of tissue batch
5.3.Secure block in microtome following specified safety procedures
5.4.Label required number of microscope slides with patient identification as prescribed by enterprise
5.5.Cut tissue sections according to needs of subsequent procedures
5.6.Float sections onto water bath to flatten tissues
5.7.Pick up sections onto microscope slides ensuring patient identification on slides matches that on block
5.8.Apply procedures to prevent cross-contamination between patient tissues 5.9.Maintain tissue sections in conditions compatible with intended subsequent procedures

Performance Criteria:

6.1.Apply staining procedures to demonstrate required morphological features
6.2.Prepare labile reagents for immediate use 6.3.Select reagents for specified technique, ensuring reagent sequence matches standard procedure
6.4.Stain sections according to method accommodating any authorised variations and applying required quality control
6.5.Mount slides using medium compatible with staining technique
6.6.Examine sections microscopically to ensure expected staining outcomes are achieved and procedural artefacts are detected 6.7.Confirm macroscopically or microscopically that tissue type conforms with labelling and pathologist specifications
6.8.Participate in final check to establish that the number of slides tallies with the worksheet 6.9.Attach permanent label giving specimen details as required by enterprise

Performance Criteria:

7.1.Monitor and maintain resources for pathologists in cut-up area
7.2.Liaise with clinical and nursing staff if required by enterprise regarding tissue fixative requirements in areas, such as wards, theatres and mortuary
7.3.Monitor and maintain volumes of fixatives in areas, such as wards, theatres and mortuary 7.4.Store slides and blocks according to legal and enterprise requirements under conditions that prevent degeneration

Performance Criteria:

8.1.Use established safe work practices and personal protective equipment to ensure personal safety and that of other laboratory personnel
8.2.Handle non-fixed tissues safely to minimise cross-infection and contamination of personnel and environment
8.3.Store fixed tissues as specified to minimise exposure of personnel to dangerous fumes and vapours
8.4.Clean up spills using appropriate techniques to protect personnel, work area and environment from contamination
8.5.Minimise the generation of wastes 8.6.Ensure the safe disposal of biohazardous materials and other laboratory wastes in accordance with enterprise procedures

Performance Criteria:

9.1.Make entries on report forms or into computer systems, accurately calculating, recording or transcribing data as required 9.2.File and store tissue sections to facilitate efficient retrieval as required
9.3.Maintain instrument logs as required by accreditation checks
9.4.Maintain confidentiality and security of all clinical information, and laboratory data and records