Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification)
I'd like to wade into this discuss with a couple of comments: LABS WANTING ONLY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES AND/OR NON-CERTIFIED HISTOTECHS: Yes, I'm still hearing about places like this. When I talk with the supervisors, it's because the lab wants the person doing the histotech job, but they only want to pay them at lab assistant wages. Plus, once they get the people trained as histotechs, the employees can't go elsewhere, because the other labs only want certified histotech, and these people can't get certified as they don't have the associate degree and minimum 12 hours of biology and chemistry combined as required to take the ASCP HT exam. So these people end up having to stay there. (Personally, I think is very unfair to the employees they hire.) LABS NOT KNOWING ABOUT THE CHANGES IN HT REQUIREMENTS: Even though the High School route was dropped as of Jan 1, 2005 (over 7 years ago), I still get emails from labs that want to hire one of my students, but their job description says high school diploma. I usually call these places up, and the histology supervisor had no idea the ASCP HT high school route was dropped. Someone should have told them. Even though it was in every NSH in Action for the 5 years previous (that's now over 12 years ago), in some ASCP publications each year for the 5 years previous, and on both the NSH and ASCP webpage for the 5 years previous, well, since they aren't NSH or ASCP members, well, someone still should have contacted them directly and let them know. Sigh. I've had employees call that they were hired after the 2005 deadline, with the job description of high school graduate requirement, and were told they had 2 years to get the experience required, and then they had 1 additional year in which to take and pass the HT exam. And when they went to sign up to take the HT exam, they discovered that the HT exam requirements had dropped the high school route and now the on-the-job (OJT) requires the associate degree/60 credit hours with 12 credits of bio/chem, which of course they don't have. They tell me that their histology supervisor says they are going to fire them, because they can't take the ASCP HT Exam. I end up talking with the supervisor, and advise them to talk with their HR and Legal departments, as they are the ones who advertised the high school requirement, and they are the ones who hired this person without the needed education. And I suggest they help with person complete an on-line NAACLS HT program, several of which will take someone with the high school diploma, as long as they had a biology, a chemistry, and a math class in high school. NAACLS STUDENTS TAKING THE HT (OR HTL) ASCP EXAM: NAACLS is the accrediting agency for HT and HTL programs. (Think CAP, but for most lab training programs.) NAACLS has a long list of standards for programs to follow. (Think CAP checklist.) Standard 14 G has a statement The granting of the degree or certificate must not be contingent upon the student's passing any type of external certification or licensure examination. (Explanation: Not all HT programs end in an associate degree. The certificate refers to a certificate of completion of a program. My program, for example, is hospital-based. Some students already have their degree before they start my program. Some have all the college credits except for the ones they are earning while completing the internship, then they earn their degree from the college when they complete the internship and get the grade for those last credit hours. The hospital doesn't grant the degree, the college does. The hospital program grants a certificate of completion of the program, which is acceptable to NAACLS, ASCP, and employers.) As NAACLS accredited HT or HTL programs, we can encourage our students to take the HT/HTL exam upon completion of the program. We can do review sessions with them. We can remind them of the deadlines to sign up. We can help them sign up if they are having problems. We can let them know that labs in our area expect people to be certified. We can let them know that they can sign up while still in the program (couple of months before graduation), and they can, before they graduate, pick a date to take the exam after graduation. We can tell them that these dates to take the exams can be put on their resume, on the application, and that they can inform the supervisor during the interview that they are already signed up to take the HT/HTL exam. But we can NOT make the student take the exam. Completion of the program cannot be contingent upon taking or passing the HT/HTL exam (or getting state licensure). The program could lose NAACLS accreditation if we force the student to take the HT/HTL/state licensure exam, or withhold their degree or certificate until they do take/pass the HT/HTL exam/become state licensed. Thanks for listening. Peggy A. Wenk, HTL(ASCP)SLS Program Director, Schools of
[Histonet] disposal of 3, 3'-Diaminobenzidine Tetrahydrochloride (DAB)
Dear HistoNet Community, Recently we purchased an immunostainer . In the waste from the immunostainer there are small quantities of 3,3'-Diaminobenzidine Tetrahydrochloride (DAB) in the amount of e 35-38 mg per 20L of waste. I want to hear from the community how you dispose of it. Do you use any of the methods available (permanganate/sulphuric acid and hydrogen peroxide/HRPA) to convert DAB to non-mutagenic compounds? Thank you, Iliana Dimitrova, RT, B.Tech., M.Sc. Histology Supervisor Medical Education and Laboratory Support Services (MELSS) Faculty of Medicine Memorial University of Newfoundland St. John's, NL Canada A1B 3V6 This electronic communication is governed by the terms and conditions at http://www.mun.ca/cc/policies/electronic_communications_disclaimer_2012.php ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] disposal of 3, 3'-Diaminobenzidine Tetrahydrochloride (DAB)
We have ours hauled away by our hazardous waste company.. Joyce Weems Pathology Manager 678-843-7376 Phone 678-843-7831 Fax joyce.we...@emoryhealthcare.org www.saintjosephsatlanta.org 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Road Atlanta, GA 30342 This e-mail, including any attachments is the property of Saint Joseph's Hospital and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete this message, and reply to the sender regarding the error in a separate email. -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of idimi...@mun.ca Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 8:38 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] disposal of 3, 3'-Diaminobenzidine Tetrahydrochloride (DAB) Dear HistoNet Community, Recently we purchased an immunostainer . In the waste from the immunostainer there are small quantities of 3,3'-Diaminobenzidine Tetrahydrochloride (DAB) in the amount of e 35-38 mg per 20L of waste. I want to hear from the community how you dispose of it. Do you use any of the methods available (permanganate/sulphuric acid and hydrogen peroxide/HRPA) to convert DAB to non-mutagenic compounds? Thank you, Iliana Dimitrova, RT, B.Tech., M.Sc. Histology Supervisor Medical Education and Laboratory Support Services (MELSS) Faculty of Medicine Memorial University of Newfoundland St. John's, NL Canada A1B 3V6 This electronic communication is governed by the terms and conditions at http://www.mun.ca/cc/policies/electronic_communications_disclaimer_2012.php ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet This e-mail message (including any attachments) is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this message (including any attachments) is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please contact the sender by reply e-mail message and destroy all copies of the original message (including attachments). ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] Exciting new opportunities in Philadelphia, PA and Phoenix, AZ These are RELIA EXCLUSIVES!!
Hi Histonetters!! I hope everyone is having a great day. I have new opportunities that are exclusive to RELIA that I want to tell you about. I am excited about these positions because they are new clients for me who I have heard really great things about from your peers. I have a new client in the Phoenix area that is looking for a histotech ht/htl certified with at least 2 years of experience. Derm experience is preferred and Mohs is a plus - if you don't know Mohs they will train. I have a new client who we are helping with staffing in their brand new lab located just north of Philadelphia. ASCP HT/HTL and AAS or BS degree required along with a minimum of 3 years of experience with routine histology. Grossing and/or IHC experience are a plus. My clients offer competitive salaries and excellent benefits. If you or anyone you know might be interested in hearing more about either of these opportunities please contact me. I can be reached at mailto:rel...@earthlink.net rel...@earthlink.net or toll free at 866-607-3542. Thank You! Pam Barker President RELIA Specialists in Allied Healthcare Recruiting 5703 Red Bug Lake Road #330 Winter Springs, FL 32708-4969 Phone: (407)657-2027 Cell: (407)353-5070 FAX: (407)678-2788 E-mail: mailto:rel...@earthlink.net rel...@earthlink.net http://www.facebook.com/PamBarkerRELIA www.facebook.com/PamBarkerRELIA http://www.linkedin.com/in/reliasolutions www.linkedin.com/in/reliasolutions http://www.twitter.com/pamatrelia www.twitter.com/pamatrelia ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification)
Peggy Thanks so much for posting this !! I see those job descriptions you speak of all the time. They actually contradict themselves within the description or job posting itself. Such as ask for HT/HTL certification OR 1 year acceptable experience, and then have education requirements of HSD or GED. There are a few people I guess that could be grandfathered, but wat is the certification and education they want/require? Many people I have encountered working in the lab truly don't know the certification eligibility requirements now and think that OJT is still open- even as you pointed out the 7 year time elapse. I stopped trying to correct people's misconception on this and just direct people to the BOC/BOR website for the routes. I have no idea if they ever actually do it, but I do my best to get people to the correct information. I agree supervisors or managers should be more informed on this and check before they advise people, but just my opinion. I do think it is misleading to hire people and allow them to think that this alone can lead to their certification at this point if they don't also pursue the education. I have seen MANY people who fell into this situation and then were unable to change jobs if they needed or wanted to. I think only people who have ever been involved with teaching seem to know about NAACLS. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: lpw...@sbcglobal.net To: joellewea...@hotmail.com; tpodawi...@lrgh.org CC: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Date: Thu, 24 May 2012 05:43:32 -0400 I'd like to wade into this discuss with a couple of comments: LABS WANTING ONLY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES AND/OR NON-CERTIFIED HISTOTECHS: Yes, I'm still hearing about places like this. When I talk with the supervisors, it's because the lab wants the person doing the histotech job, but they only want to pay them at lab assistant wages. Plus, once they get the people trained as histotechs, the employees can't go elsewhere, because the other labs only want certified histotech, and these people can't get certified as they don't have the associate degree and minimum 12 hours of biology and chemistry combined as required to take the ASCP HT exam. So these people end up having to stay there. (Personally, I think is very unfair to the employees they hire.) LABS NOT KNOWING ABOUT THE CHANGES IN HT REQUIREMENTS: Even though the High School route was dropped as of Jan 1, 2005 (over 7 years ago), I still get emails from labs that want to hire one of my students, but their job description says high school diploma. I usually call these places up, and the histology supervisor had no idea the ASCP HT high school route was dropped. Someone should have told them. Even though it was in every NSH in Action for the 5 years previous (that's now over 12 years ago), in some ASCP publications each year for the 5 years previous, and on both the NSH and ASCP webpage for the 5 years previous, well, since they aren't NSH or ASCP members, well, someone still should have contacted them directly and let them know. Sigh. I've had employees call that they were hired after the 2005 deadline, with the job description of high school graduate requirement, and were told they had 2 years to get the experience required, and then they had 1 additional year in which to take and pass the HT exam. And when they went to sign up to take the HT exam, they discovered that the HT exam requirements had dropped the high school route and now the on-the-job (OJT) requires the associate degree/60 credit hours with 12 credits of bio/chem, which of course they don't have. They tell me that their histology supervisor says they are going to fire them, because they can't take the ASCP HT Exam. I end up talking with the supervisor, and advise them to talk with their HR and Legal departments, as they are the ones who advertised the high school requirement, and they are the ones who hired this person without the needed education. And I suggest they help with person complete an on-line NAACLS HT program, several of which will take someone with the high school diploma, as long as they had a biology, a chemistry, and a math class in high school. NAACLS STUDENTS TAKING THE HT (OR HTL) ASCP EXAM: NAACLS is the accrediting agency for HT and HTL programs. (Think CAP, but for most lab training programs.) NAACLS has a long list of standards for programs to follow. (Think CAP checklist.) Standard 14 G has a statement The granting of the degree or certificate must not be contingent upon the student's passing any type of external certification or licensure examination. (Explanation: Not all HT programs end in an associate degree. The certificate refers to a certificate of completion of a program. My program, for example, is hospital-based. Some students already have their degree
RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification)
If OJT is no longer a valid route, then why can someone with a BS in biology and a years experience in an accredited lab be allowed to take the exam? Most of the people falling into said category learn OTJ and at that learn the lab, not all the theory, so to me, OJT is still there since many of these people never went to histo school. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Senior Research Tech Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL Robert. H. Lurie Cancer Center Northwestern University 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 b-freder...@northwestern.edu -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of joelle weaver Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:26 AM To: lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Peggy Thanks so much for posting this !! I see those job descriptions you speak of all the time. They actually contradict themselves within the description or job posting itself. Such as ask for HT/HTL certification OR 1 year acceptable experience, and then have education requirements of HSD or GED. There are a few people I guess that could be grandfathered, but wat is the certification and education they want/require? Many people I have encountered working in the lab truly don't know the certification eligibility requirements now and think that OJT is still open- even as you pointed out the 7 year time elapse. I stopped trying to correct people's misconception on this and just direct people to the BOC/BOR website for the routes. I have no idea if they ever actually do it, but I do my best to get people to the correct information. I agree supervisors or managers should be more informed on this and check before they advise people, but just my opinion. I do think it is misleading to hire people and allow them to think that this alone can lead to their certification at this point if they don't also pursue the education. I have seen MANY people who fell into this situation and then were unable to change jobs if they needed or wanted to. I think only people who have ever been involved with teaching seem to know about NAACLS. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: lpw...@sbcglobal.net To: joellewea...@hotmail.com; tpodawi...@lrgh.org CC: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Date: Thu, 24 May 2012 05:43:32 -0400 I'd like to wade into this discuss with a couple of comments: LABS WANTING ONLY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES AND/OR NON-CERTIFIED HISTOTECHS: Yes, I'm still hearing about places like this. When I talk with the supervisors, it's because the lab wants the person doing the histotech job, but they only want to pay them at lab assistant wages. Plus, once they get the people trained as histotechs, the employees can't go elsewhere, because the other labs only want certified histotech, and these people can't get certified as they don't have the associate degree and minimum 12 hours of biology and chemistry combined as required to take the ASCP HT exam. So these people end up having to stay there. (Personally, I think is very unfair to the employees they hire.) LABS NOT KNOWING ABOUT THE CHANGES IN HT REQUIREMENTS: Even though the High School route was dropped as of Jan 1, 2005 (over 7 years ago), I still get emails from labs that want to hire one of my students, but their job description says high school diploma. I usually call these places up, and the histology supervisor had no idea the ASCP HT high school route was dropped. Someone should have told them. Even though it was in every NSH in Action for the 5 years previous (that's now over 12 years ago), in some ASCP publications each year for the 5 years previous, and on both the NSH and ASCP webpage for the 5 years previous, well, since they aren't NSH or ASCP members, well, someone still should have contacted them directly and let them know. Sigh. I've had employees call that they were hired after the 2005 deadline, with the job description of high school graduate requirement, and were told they had 2 years to get the experience required, and then they had 1 additional year in which to take and pass the HT exam. And when they went to sign up to take the HT exam, they discovered that the HT exam requirements had dropped the high school route and now the on-the-job (OJT) requires the associate degree/60 credit hours with 12 credits of bio/chem, which of course they don't have. They tell me that their histology supervisor says they are going to fire them, because they can't take the ASCP HT Exam. I end up talking with the supervisor, and advise them to talk with their HR and Legal departments, as they are the ones who advertised the high school requirement, and they are the ones
Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification)
OJT is only available to HTL's via the route you described. Sent from my iPhone On May 24, 2012, at 10:45 AM, Bernice Frederick b-freder...@northwestern.edu wrote: If OJT is no longer a valid route, then why can someone with a BS in biology and a years experience in an accredited lab be allowed to take the exam? Most of the people falling into said category learn OTJ and at that learn the lab, not all the theory, so to me, OJT is still there since many of these people never went to histo school. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Senior Research Tech Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL Robert. H. Lurie Cancer Center Northwestern University 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 b-freder...@northwestern.edu -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of joelle weaver Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:26 AM To: lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Peggy Thanks so much for posting this !! I see those job descriptions you speak of all the time. They actually contradict themselves within the description or job posting itself. Such as ask for HT/HTL certification OR 1 year acceptable experience, and then have education requirements of HSD or GED. There are a few people I guess that could be grandfathered, but wat is the certification and education they want/require? Many people I have encountered working in the lab truly don't know the certification eligibility requirements now and think that OJT is still open- even as you pointed out the 7 year time elapse. I stopped trying to correct people's misconception on this and just direct people to the BOC/BOR website for the routes. I have no idea if they ever actually do it, but I do my best to get people to the correct information. I agree supervisors or managers should be more informed on this and check before they advise people, but just my opinion. I do think it is misleading to hire people and allow them to think that this alone can lead to their certification at this point if they don't also pursue the education. I have seen MANY people who fell into this situation and then were unable to change jobs if they needed or wanted to. I think only people who have ever been involved with teaching seem to know about NAACLS. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: lpw...@sbcglobal.net To: joellewea...@hotmail.com; tpodawi...@lrgh.org CC: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Date: Thu, 24 May 2012 05:43:32 -0400 I'd like to wade into this discuss with a couple of comments: LABS WANTING ONLY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES AND/OR NON-CERTIFIED HISTOTECHS: Yes, I'm still hearing about places like this. When I talk with the supervisors, it's because the lab wants the person doing the histotech job, but they only want to pay them at lab assistant wages. Plus, once they get the people trained as histotechs, the employees can't go elsewhere, because the other labs only want certified histotech, and these people can't get certified as they don't have the associate degree and minimum 12 hours of biology and chemistry combined as required to take the ASCP HT exam. So these people end up having to stay there. (Personally, I think is very unfair to the employees they hire.) LABS NOT KNOWING ABOUT THE CHANGES IN HT REQUIREMENTS: Even though the High School route was dropped as of Jan 1, 2005 (over 7 years ago), I still get emails from labs that want to hire one of my students, but their job description says high school diploma. I usually call these places up, and the histology supervisor had no idea the ASCP HT high school route was dropped. Someone should have told them. Even though it was in every NSH in Action for the 5 years previous (that's now over 12 years ago), in some ASCP publications each year for the 5 years previous, and on both the NSH and ASCP webpage for the 5 years previous, well, since they aren't NSH or ASCP members, well, someone still should have contacted them directly and let them know. Sigh. I've had employees call that they were hired after the 2005 deadline, with the job description of high school graduate requirement, and were told they had 2 years to get the experience required, and then they had 1 additional year in which to take and pass the HT exam. And when they went to sign up to take the HT exam, they discovered that the HT exam requirements had dropped the high school route and now the on-the-job (OJT) requires the associate degree/60 credit hours with 12 credits of bio/chem, which of course they don't have. They tell me that their histology supervisor says they are going to fire them, because they
RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification)
So why was OJT supposedly off the charts in 2005 (so to speak). Guess not. Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Senior Research Tech Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL Robert. H. Lurie Cancer Center Northwestern University 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 b-freder...@northwestern.edu -Original Message- From: William [mailto:cha...@yahoo.com] Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:50 AM To: Bernice Frederick Cc: joelle weaver; lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) OJT is only available to HTL's via the route you described. Sent from my iPhone On May 24, 2012, at 10:45 AM, Bernice Frederick b-freder...@northwestern.edu wrote: If OJT is no longer a valid route, then why can someone with a BS in biology and a years experience in an accredited lab be allowed to take the exam? Most of the people falling into said category learn OTJ and at that learn the lab, not all the theory, so to me, OJT is still there since many of these people never went to histo school. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Senior Research Tech Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL Robert. H. Lurie Cancer Center Northwestern University 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 b-freder...@northwestern.edu -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of joelle weaver Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:26 AM To: lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Peggy Thanks so much for posting this !! I see those job descriptions you speak of all the time. They actually contradict themselves within the description or job posting itself. Such as ask for HT/HTL certification OR 1 year acceptable experience, and then have education requirements of HSD or GED. There are a few people I guess that could be grandfathered, but wat is the certification and education they want/require? Many people I have encountered working in the lab truly don't know the certification eligibility requirements now and think that OJT is still open- even as you pointed out the 7 year time elapse. I stopped trying to correct people's misconception on this and just direct people to the BOC/BOR website for the routes. I have no idea if they ever actually do it, but I do my best to get people to the correct information. I agree supervisors or managers should be more informed on this and check before they advise people, but just my opinion. I do think it is misleading to hire people and allow them to think that this alone can lead to their certification at this point if they don't also pursue the education. I have seen MANY people who fell into this situation and then were unable to change jobs if they needed or wanted to. I think only people who have ever been involved with teaching seem to know about NAACLS. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: lpw...@sbcglobal.net To: joellewea...@hotmail.com; tpodawi...@lrgh.org CC: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Date: Thu, 24 May 2012 05:43:32 -0400 I'd like to wade into this discuss with a couple of comments: LABS WANTING ONLY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES AND/OR NON-CERTIFIED HISTOTECHS: Yes, I'm still hearing about places like this. When I talk with the supervisors, it's because the lab wants the person doing the histotech job, but they only want to pay them at lab assistant wages. Plus, once they get the people trained as histotechs, the employees can't go elsewhere, because the other labs only want certified histotech, and these people can't get certified as they don't have the associate degree and minimum 12 hours of biology and chemistry combined as required to take the ASCP HT exam. So these people end up having to stay there. (Personally, I think is very unfair to the employees they hire.) LABS NOT KNOWING ABOUT THE CHANGES IN HT REQUIREMENTS: Even though the High School route was dropped as of Jan 1, 2005 (over 7 years ago), I still get emails from labs that want to hire one of my students, but their job description says high school diploma. I usually call these places up, and the histology supervisor had no idea the ASCP HT high school route was dropped. Someone should have told them. Even though it was in every NSH in Action for the 5 years previous (that's now over 12 years ago), in some ASCP publications each year for the 5 years previous, and on both the NSH and ASCP webpage for the 5 years previous, well, since they aren't NSH or ASCP members, well, someone still should have contacted them directly and let them know. Sigh. I've had employees call that they were
Re: [Histonet] disposal of 3, 3'-Diaminobenzidine Tetrahydrochloride (DAB)
I used to neutralize DAB with 0.2M potassium permanganate + 2.0 M sulfuric + decolorize with ascorbic acid, but the procedure is too cumbersome. Others prefer to give the waste to a company that will dispose of it BUT remember that no matter who disposes of your wastes, YOU and NOT the disposing company are responsible is something happens, The same happens with disposing of used formalin and xylene. René J. --- On Thu, 5/24/12, idimi...@mun.ca idimi...@mun.ca wrote: From: idimi...@mun.ca idimi...@mun.ca Subject: [Histonet] disposal of 3, 3'-Diaminobenzidine Tetrahydrochloride (DAB) To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Thursday, May 24, 2012, 8:37 AM Dear HistoNet Community, Recently we purchased an immunostainer . In the waste from the immunostainer there are small quantities of 3,3'-Diaminobenzidine Tetrahydrochloride (DAB) in the amount of e 35-38 mg per 20L of waste. I want to hear from the community how you dispose of it. Do you use any of the methods available (permanganate/sulphuric acid and hydrogen peroxide/HRPA) to convert DAB to non-mutagenic compounds? Thank you, Iliana Dimitrova, RT, B.Tech., M.Sc. Histology Supervisor Medical Education and Laboratory Support Services (MELSS) Faculty of Medicine Memorial University of Newfoundland St. John's, NL Canada A1B 3V6 This electronic communication is governed by the terms and conditions at http://www.mun.ca/cc/policies/electronic_communications_disclaimer_2012.php ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification)
Bernice I hire individuals with BS and train them in the lab and then they sit for the HT or HTL registry after one year of employment. I have done this consistently over the years. I have had probably about 8 or so individuals train with me and then pass the registry. Liz Elizabeth A. Chlipala, BS, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Premier Laboratory, LLC PO Box 18592 Boulder, CO 80308 (303) 682-3949 office (303) 881-0763 cell (303) 682-9060 fax l...@premierlab.com Ship to address: Premier Laboratory, LLC 1567 Skyway Drive, Unit E Longmont, CO 80504 From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Bernice Frederick [b-freder...@northwestern.edu] Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 8:45 AM To: joelle weaver; lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) If OJT is no longer a valid route, then why can someone with a BS in biology and a years experience in an accredited lab be allowed to take the exam? Most of the people falling into said category learn OTJ and at that learn the lab, not all the theory, so to me, OJT is still there since many of these people never went to histo school. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Senior Research Tech Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL Robert. H. Lurie Cancer Center Northwestern University 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 b-freder...@northwestern.edu -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of joelle weaver Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:26 AM To: lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Peggy Thanks so much for posting this !! I see those job descriptions you speak of all the time. They actually contradict themselves within the description or job posting itself. Such as ask for HT/HTL certification OR 1 year acceptable experience, and then have education requirements of HSD or GED. There are a few people I guess that could be grandfathered, but wat is the certification and education they want/require? Many people I have encountered working in the lab truly don't know the certification eligibility requirements now and think that OJT is still open- even as you pointed out the 7 year time elapse. I stopped trying to correct people's misconception on this and just direct people to the BOC/BOR website for the routes. I have no idea if they ever actually do it, but I do my best to get people to the correct information. I agree supervisors or managers should be more informed on this and check before they advise people, but just my opinion. I do think it is misleading to hire people and allow them to think that this alone can lead to their certification at this point if they don't also pursue the education. I have seen MANY people who fell into this situation and then were unable to change jobs if they needed or wanted to. I think only people who have ever been involved with teaching seem to know about NAACLS. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: lpw...@sbcglobal.net To: joellewea...@hotmail.com; tpodawi...@lrgh.org CC: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Date: Thu, 24 May 2012 05:43:32 -0400 I'd like to wade into this discuss with a couple of comments: LABS WANTING ONLY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES AND/OR NON-CERTIFIED HISTOTECHS: Yes, I'm still hearing about places like this. When I talk with the supervisors, it's because the lab wants the person doing the histotech job, but they only want to pay them at lab assistant wages. Plus, once they get the people trained as histotechs, the employees can't go elsewhere, because the other labs only want certified histotech, and these people can't get certified as they don't have the associate degree and minimum 12 hours of biology and chemistry combined as required to take the ASCP HT exam. So these people end up having to stay there. (Personally, I think is very unfair to the employees they hire.) LABS NOT KNOWING ABOUT THE CHANGES IN HT REQUIREMENTS: Even though the High School route was dropped as of Jan 1, 2005 (over 7 years ago), I still get emails from labs that want to hire one of my students, but their job description says high school diploma. I usually call these places up, and the histology supervisor had no idea the ASCP HT high school route was dropped. Someone should have told them. Even though it was in every NSH in Action for the 5 years previous (that's now over 12 years ago), in some ASCP publications each year for the 5 years previous, and on both the NSH and ASCP webpage for the 5 years previous, well, since they aren't NSH or ASCP members, well, someone still should
[Histonet] Elastic Stain
We are still looking for an Elastic/HE stain procedure for lung tissue. Please submit procedures to Jim Vickroy. vickroy@mhsil.commailto:vickroy@mhsil.com A few of you have responded with some suggestions but we still have not found the right procedure. Currently we stain for elastic with Verhoeff's Elastic Stain and use Van Gieson's stain as a counterstain and the pathologist would like us to use a hematoxylin and eosin counterstain instead. We have tried to use the HE as a counterstain but it is still not where he wants it to be. Does anybody have some experience with this that they would like to share? Thanks James Vickroy BS, HT(ASCP) Surgical and Autopsy Pathology Technical Supervisor Memorial Medical Center 217-788-4046 This message (including any attachments) contains confidential information intended for a specific individual and purpose, and is protected by law. If you are not the intended recipient, you should delete this message. Any disclosure, copying, or distribution of this message, or the taking of any action based on it, is strictly prohibited. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] Elastic Stain
Have you tried Resorcin fucshin HE? 1 g RF 100 ml 70% ethanol 1 ml HCL Stain in RF solution 15-30 minutes , according to depth desired wash off excess stain in 95% alcohol Wash in tap water 3-5 minutes Follow with routine HE Rena Fail On Thu, May 24, 2012 at 11:37 AM, Vickroy, Jim vickroy@mhsil.comwrote: We are still looking for an Elastic/HE stain procedure for lung tissue. Please submit procedures to Jim Vickroy. vickroy@mhsil.commailto: vickroy@mhsil.com A few of you have responded with some suggestions but we still have not found the right procedure. Currently we stain for elastic with Verhoeff's Elastic Stain and use Van Gieson's stain as a counterstain and the pathologist would like us to use a hematoxylin and eosin counterstain instead. We have tried to use the HE as a counterstain but it is still not where he wants it to be. Does anybody have some experience with this that they would like to share? Thanks James Vickroy BS, HT(ASCP) Surgical and Autopsy Pathology Technical Supervisor Memorial Medical Center 217-788-4046 This message (including any attachments) contains confidential information intended for a specific individual and purpose, and is protected by law. If you are not the intended recipient, you should delete this message. Any disclosure, copying, or distribution of this message, or the taking of any action based on it, is strictly prohibited. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification)
Bernice, I think you are confusing OJT with education requirements. The Education requirements changed, not the route of training. And the education requirements are simply for basic math and science, not specifically for Histotechnology. Since histotech schools are so rare the vast majority of histotechs are still trained on the job. We just hired a person this week who came into the lab several months ago as a temp lab assistant for basic non-histo work and had no clue about histotechnology. However she showed excellent trainability, has a B.S. degree and became very interested in the work we do. We hired her as a full time regular general lab tech (not a histotech) with the intention of training her in to histology. She will qualify to take the HTL in the next couple years. Tim Morken Supervisor, Electron Microscopy/Neuromuscular Special Studies Department of Pathology UC San Francisco Medical Center San Francisco, CA -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Bernice Frederick Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 7:52 AM To: William Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) So why was OJT supposedly off the charts in 2005 (so to speak). Guess not. Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Senior Research Tech Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL Robert. H. Lurie Cancer Center Northwestern University 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 b-freder...@northwestern.edu -Original Message- From: William [mailto:cha...@yahoo.com] Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:50 AM To: Bernice Frederick Cc: joelle weaver; lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) OJT is only available to HTL's via the route you described. Sent from my iPhone On May 24, 2012, at 10:45 AM, Bernice Frederick b-freder...@northwestern.edu wrote: If OJT is no longer a valid route, then why can someone with a BS in biology and a years experience in an accredited lab be allowed to take the exam? Most of the people falling into said category learn OTJ and at that learn the lab, not all the theory, so to me, OJT is still there since many of these people never went to histo school. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Senior Research Tech Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL Robert. H. Lurie Cancer Center Northwestern University 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 b-freder...@northwestern.edu -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of joelle weaver Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:26 AM To: lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Peggy Thanks so much for posting this !! I see those job descriptions you speak of all the time. They actually contradict themselves within the description or job posting itself. Such as ask for HT/HTL certification OR 1 year acceptable experience, and then have education requirements of HSD or GED. There are a few people I guess that could be grandfathered, but wat is the certification and education they want/require? Many people I have encountered working in the lab truly don't know the certification eligibility requirements now and think that OJT is still open- even as you pointed out the 7 year time elapse. I stopped trying to correct people's misconception on this and just direct people to the BOC/BOR website for the routes. I have no idea if they ever actually do it, but I do my best to get people to the correct information. I agree supervisors or managers should be more informed on this and check before they advise people, but just my opinion. I do think it is misleading to hire people and allow them to think that this alone can lead to their certification at this point if they don't also pursue the education. I have seen MANY people who fell into this situation and then were unable to change jobs if they needed or wanted to. I think only people who have ever been involved with teaching seem to know about NAACLS. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: lpw...@sbcglobal.net To: joellewea...@hotmail.com; tpodawi...@lrgh.org CC: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Date: Thu, 24 May 2012 05:43:32 -0400 I'd like to wade into this discuss with a couple of comments: LABS WANTING ONLY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES AND/OR NON-CERTIFIED HISTOTECHS: Yes, I'm still hearing about places like this. When I talk with the supervisors, it's because the lab wants the person doing the histotech job, but they only want to pay them at lab assistant wages. Plus,
RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification)
I think that the original post was referring to people with a HSD or GED. I am not sure of the exact reasons considered in discontinuation of OJT route, but I recall some publications discussing the desire to raise the perception and awareness of the profession. The people with bachelors and the science credits needed can choose either the HT or HTL as I understand it, with the one year of verified experience/training. I think there is a route with a associate's and the required science credits available with the verified training for the HT. I believe there are now two routes for each exam if I recall correctly, one being the program graduate route plus experience , and one with education requirements met and training/experience. There is a page on the site that lays this out if anyone wants to clarify/correct my recollection. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC CC: joellewea...@hotmail.com; lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu From: cha...@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Date: Thu, 24 May 2012 10:50:23 -0400 To: b-freder...@northwestern.edu OJT is only available to HTL's via the route you described. Sent from my iPhone On May 24, 2012, at 10:45 AM, Bernice Frederick b-freder...@northwestern.edu wrote: If OJT is no longer a valid route, then why can someone with a BS in biology and a years experience in an accredited lab be allowed to take the exam? Most of the people falling into said category learn OTJ and at that learn the lab, not all the theory, so to me, OJT is still there since many of these people never went to histo school. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Senior Research Tech Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL Robert. H. Lurie Cancer Center Northwestern University 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 b-freder...@northwestern.edu -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of joelle weaver Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:26 AM To: lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Peggy Thanks so much for posting this !! I see those job descriptions you speak of all the time. They actually contradict themselves within the description or job posting itself. Such as ask for HT/HTL certification OR 1 year acceptable experience, and then have education requirements of HSD or GED. There are a few people I guess that could be grandfathered, but wat is the certification and education they want/require? Many people I have encountered working in the lab truly don't know the certification eligibility requirements now and think that OJT is still open- even as you pointed out the 7 year time elapse. I stopped trying to correct people's misconception on this and just direct people to the BOC/BOR website for the routes. I have no idea if they ever actually do it, but I do my best to get people to the correct information. I agree supervisors or managers should be more informed on this and check before they advise people, but just my opinion. I do think it is misleading to hire people and allow them to think that this alone can lead to their certification at this point if they don't also pursue the education. I have seen MANY people who fell into this situation and then were unable to change jobs if they needed or wanted to. I think only people who have ever been involved with teaching seem to know about NAACLS. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: lpw...@sbcglobal.net To: joellewea...@hotmail.com; tpodawi...@lrgh.org CC: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Date: Thu, 24 May 2012 05:43:32 -0400 I'd like to wade into this discuss with a couple of comments: LABS WANTING ONLY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES AND/OR NON-CERTIFIED HISTOTECHS: Yes, I'm still hearing about places like this. When I talk with the supervisors, it's because the lab wants the person doing the histotech job, but they only want to pay them at lab assistant wages. Plus, once they get the people trained as histotechs, the employees can't go elsewhere, because the other labs only want certified histotech, and these people can't get certified as they don't have the associate degree and minimum 12 hours of biology and chemistry combined as required to take the ASCP HT exam. So these people end up having to stay there. (Personally, I think is very unfair to the employees they hire.) LABS NOT KNOWING ABOUT THE CHANGES IN HT REQUIREMENTS: Even though the High School route was dropped as of Jan 1, 2005 (over 7 years ago), I still get emails from
Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification)
On May 24, 2012, at 9:25 AM, joelle weaver wrote: I think that the original post was referring to people with a HSD or GED. I am not sure of the exact reasons considered in discontinuation of OJT route, but I recall some publications discussing the desire to raise the perception and awareness of the profession. The people with bachelors and the science credits needed can choose either the HT or HTL as I understand it, with the one year of verified experience/training. I think there is a route with a associate's and the required science credits available with the verified training for the HT. I believe there are now two routes for each exam if I recall correctly, one being the program graduate route plus experience , and one with education requirements met and training/experience. There is a page on the site that lays this out if anyone wants to clarify/correct my recollection. OK, so I have a question. We train students to do electron microscopy, both specimen prep and instrument operation. They fix and embed (in plastic) tissues and make thick sections (1 um or less for us) and examine them using LM. It is not much of a leap to add paraffin techniques and/or basic staining etc. We have most of the equipment that would be needed already, but I am not ready to go into a full blown HT curriculum. So, the question is, if a student gets an Associates degree that includes the basic science, would it help the student to get the basics of HT before looking for a job? Or could they take the test, get something to show for their work and make them a good job candidate? Our students are skilled and could do the job, but figuring out how to help them and give them the right advice is my problem now. Jon Jonathan Krupp Delta College 5151 Pacific Ave. Box 212 Stockton, CA 95207 209-954-5284 jkr...@deltacollege.edu Find us on Facebook @ Electron Microscopy at SJ Delta College ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] RE: Not requiring HT Certification
I am not sure of the exact reasons considered in discontinuation of OJT route, but I recall some publications discussing the desire to raise the perception and awareness of the profession. Just a clarification, the OJT route was NOT discontinued - it is still there - even now the vast majority of techs are trained by OJT - maybe 99.9 percent. They simply need more education (not even a degree, just enough credits!) to qualify to take the HT test. If you mean the pure OJT route - no education beyond high school, well, the primary driver was the fact that almost all techs could pass the practical but the pass rate on the written test was much, much lower. It became obvious that many people were doing lab work that they did not fully understand or had trouble comprehending the details. Tim Morken -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of joelle weaver Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:25 AM To: cha...@yahoo.com; b-freder...@northwestern.edu Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) I think that the original post was referring to people with a HSD or GED. I am not sure of the exact reasons considered in discontinuation of OJT route, but I recall some publications discussing the desire to raise the perception and awareness of the profession. The people with bachelors and the science credits needed can choose either the HT or HTL as I understand it, with the one year of verified experience/training. I think there is a route with a associate's and the required science credits available with the verified training for the HT. I believe there are now two routes for each exam if I recall correctly, one being the program graduate route plus experience , and one with education requirements met and training/experience. There is a page on the site that lays this out if anyone wants to clarify/correct my recollection. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC CC: joellewea...@hotmail.com; lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu From: cha...@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Date: Thu, 24 May 2012 10:50:23 -0400 To: b-freder...@northwestern.edu OJT is only available to HTL's via the route you described. Sent from my iPhone On May 24, 2012, at 10:45 AM, Bernice Frederick b-freder...@northwestern.edu wrote: If OJT is no longer a valid route, then why can someone with a BS in biology and a years experience in an accredited lab be allowed to take the exam? Most of the people falling into said category learn OTJ and at that learn the lab, not all the theory, so to me, OJT is still there since many of these people never went to histo school. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Senior Research Tech Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL Robert. H. Lurie Cancer Center Northwestern University 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 b-freder...@northwestern.edu -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of joelle weaver Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:26 AM To: lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Peggy Thanks so much for posting this !! I see those job descriptions you speak of all the time. They actually contradict themselves within the description or job posting itself. Such as ask for HT/HTL certification OR 1 year acceptable experience, and then have education requirements of HSD or GED. There are a few people I guess that could be grandfathered, but wat is the certification and education they want/require? Many people I have encountered working in the lab truly don't know the certification eligibility requirements now and think that OJT is still open- even as you pointed out the 7 year time elapse. I stopped trying to correct people's misconception on this and just direct people to the BOC/BOR website for the routes. I have no idea if they ever actually do it, but I do my best to get people to the correct information. I agree supervisors or managers should be more informed on this and check before they advise people, but just my opinion. I do think it is misleading to hire people and allow them to think that this alone can lead to their certification at this point if they don't also pursue the education. I have seen MANY people who fell into this situation and then were unable to change jobs if they needed or wanted to. I think only people who have ever been involved with teaching seem to know about NAACLS. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: lpw...@sbcglobal.net To:
RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification)
Jon There is a route with associates and training I believe. Of course I can't speak for the BOC, and I am sure that you want to help your employees as much as you can. I do see your point about the similarities in tasks. My thought would be that the exam eligibility states that they have to have recent experience in fixation, embedding, microtomy, and staining (histology) and the associated theory knowledge. EM is on the exam study topics, but also with the theory/experience for all those routine histological techniques, is how I read it. Take a look at the exam outlines, that should give you an idea of the scope. Ascp.org get certified. As I have been told, they want to cover the widest possible scope of roles histologists can perform, which could include EM, but not only that. If they don't have exposure to regular histology I think that it might be hard for to feel prepared for the regular HT or HTL exams. That's just my opinion, based on what I have observed and also the pass rates ( ~ 65%), for people even with training/experience- there could be an exceptional person out there. I can understand not wanting to get buried in doing a whole HT curricula ( believe me, I do). How about the option of having cross training in a histology lab? Do you have routine histology on site or a nearby lab? The best advice I can give is to go to the website and carefully read the requirments to see how your employees might fit in. If you want to provide the theory without having to do the curricula, there are on line programs out there which can supplement OJT and a supportive mentor and organization. I have seen this work successfully with motivated people with the ability to have hands on practice alongside. I suggest the NSH site which lists the accredited programs or the NAACLS site which has a search for programs, if that would help. As far as employability, my opinion is that it would certainly open up options for your employees to also have skills in routine histology make them more valuable to your organization, and I would think certification would be even more helpful to them as far as options. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC Subject: Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) From: jkr...@deltacollege.edu Date: Thu, 24 May 2012 09:53:21 -0700 CC: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu To: joellewea...@hotmail.com On May 24, 2012, at 9:25 AM, joelle weaver wrote: I think that the original post was referring to people with a HSD or GED. I am not sure of the exact reasons considered in discontinuation of OJT route, but I recall some publications discussing the desire to raise the perception and awareness of the profession. The people with bachelors and the science credits needed can choose either the HT or HTL as I understand it, with the one year of verified experience/training. I think there is a route with a associate's and the required science credits available with the verified training for the HT. I believe there are now two routes for each exam if I recall correctly, one being the program graduate route plus experience , and one with education requirements met and training/experience. There is a page on the site that lays this out if anyone wants to clarify/correct my recollection. OK, so I have a question. We train students to do electron microscopy, both specimen prep and instrument operation. They fix and embed (in plastic) tissues and make thick sections (1 um or less for us) and examine them using LM. It is not much of a leap to add paraffin techniques and/or basic staining etc. We have most of the equipment that would be needed already, but I am not ready to go into a full blown HT curriculum. So, the question is, if a student gets an Associates degree that includes the basic science, would it help the student to get the basics of HT before looking for a job? Or could they take the test, get something to show for their work and make them a good job candidate? Our students are skilled and could do the job, but figuring out how to help them and give them the right advice is my problem now. Jon Jonathan Krupp Delta College 5151 Pacific Ave. Box 212 Stockton, CA 95207 209-954-5284 jkr...@deltacollege.edu Find us on Facebook @ Electron Microscopy at SJ Delta College ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] RE: Not requiring HT Certification
Yes I was referring to the HS and OJT training route. There is confusion about the degree + OJT and HS + OJT. Yes, that was my understanding also of the drivers, I just could not recall where I read/heard that. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: timothy.mor...@ucsfmedctr.org To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Thu, 24 May 2012 09:56:25 -0700 Subject: [Histonet] RE: Not requiring HT Certification I am not sure of the exact reasons considered in discontinuation of OJT route, but I recall some publications discussing the desire to raise the perception and awareness of the profession. Just a clarification, the OJT route was NOT discontinued - it is still there - even now the vast majority of techs are trained by OJT - maybe 99.9 percent. They simply need more education (not even a degree, just enough credits!) to qualify to take the HT test. If you mean the pure OJT route - no education beyond high school, well, the primary driver was the fact that almost all techs could pass the practical but the pass rate on the written test was much, much lower. It became obvious that many people were doing lab work that they did not fully understand or had trouble comprehending the details. Tim Morken -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of joelle weaver Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:25 AM To: cha...@yahoo.com; b-freder...@northwestern.edu Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) I think that the original post was referring to people with a HSD or GED. I am not sure of the exact reasons considered in discontinuation of OJT route, but I recall some publications discussing the desire to raise the perception and awareness of the profession. The people with bachelors and the science credits needed can choose either the HT or HTL as I understand it, with the one year of verified experience/training. I think there is a route with a associate's and the required science credits available with the verified training for the HT. I believe there are now two routes for each exam if I recall correctly, one being the program graduate route plus experience , and one with education requirements met and training/experience. There is a page on the site that lays this out if anyone wants to clarify/correct my recollection. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC CC: joellewea...@hotmail.com; lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu From: cha...@yahoo.com Subject: Re: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Date: Thu, 24 May 2012 10:50:23 -0400 To: b-freder...@northwestern.edu OJT is only available to HTL's via the route you described. Sent from my iPhone On May 24, 2012, at 10:45 AM, Bernice Frederick b-freder...@northwestern.edu wrote: If OJT is no longer a valid route, then why can someone with a BS in biology and a years experience in an accredited lab be allowed to take the exam? Most of the people falling into said category learn OTJ and at that learn the lab, not all the theory, so to me, OJT is still there since many of these people never went to histo school. Bernice Bernice Frederick HTL (ASCP) Senior Research Tech Pathology Core Facility ECOGPCO-RL Robert. H. Lurie Cancer Center Northwestern University 710 N Fairbanks Court Olson 8-421 Chicago,IL 60611 312-503-3723 b-freder...@northwestern.edu -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of joelle weaver Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 9:26 AM To: lpw...@sbcglobal.net; tpodawi...@lrgh.org Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] (no subject) (Not requiring HT Certification) Peggy Thanks so much for posting this !! I see those job descriptions you speak of all the time. They actually contradict themselves within the description or job posting itself. Such as ask for HT/HTL certification OR 1 year acceptable experience, and then have education requirements of HSD or GED. There are a few people I guess that could be grandfathered, but wat is the certification and education they want/require? Many people I have encountered working in the lab truly don't know the certification eligibility requirements now and think that OJT is still open- even as you pointed out the 7 year time elapse. I stopped trying to correct people's misconception on this and just direct people to the BOC/BOR website for the routes. I have no idea if they ever actually do it, but I do my best to get people to the correct information. I agree supervisors or managers should be more informed on this and check
[Histonet] RE: Histonet Digest, Vol 102, Issue 20
Hi all- Can someone help me with a billing question- We do a Giemsa stain maybe once a year, and I can't remember how we billed for it. Any ideas? Thank you! Maggie HTL, Winter Park, Florida ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] Unregistered techs
Question 1: Why do health care organizations NOT hire unlicensed Physicians? Answer: Because of the maelstrom of malpractice suits, civil and criminal laws they would be breaking, ruined careers, prison, orphaned children etc. Question 2: Why do supervisors/lab managers hire unregistered (see previous posts) histotechs? Answer: Because they can pay them $12/hr instead of $30/hr. Many of them receive hefty bonuses for controlling costs. They get away with it. The most brilliant Pathologist in the world could NEVER EVEN SEE a malignancy that was rough cut away by an unqualified histotech. Jay A. Lundgren, M.S., HTL(ASCP) ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] disposal of 3, 3'-Diaminobenzidine Tetrahydrochloride (DAB)
Sadly, I've worked at dozens of labs where they pour it down the sink. I have actually heard Technical Representatives/ Salesmen tell prospective purchasers of their immunostainers that the waste was safe to pour down the sink. Most labs will follow the cheapest path they can get away with, based on their municipality's water regulations, or their own ignorance of said regulation. Dilution does not equal neutralization. We are putting metric tons of DAB into our watershed, milliliter by milliliter. Sincerely, Jay A. Lundgren, M.S., HTL (ASCP) ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] RE: Microwave verification
Try the CLSI guideline. It is being revised now, but the original is pretty detailed. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: tajib...@echd.org To: lbustama...@cvm.tamu.edu; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Wed, 23 May 2012 14:33:33 -0500 CC: Subject: [Histonet] RE: Microwave verification Can you please give more details about this question? Tunde Ajibade BS, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Histology Supervisor Medical Center Hospital Odessa,TX Tel: 432-640-2348 Fax:432-640-2303 -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Bustamante, Lin Sent: Wednesday, May 23, 2012 1:42 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Microwave verification Does anyone knows a protocol for Microwave verification? (CAP requirement). Thank you. Lin Bustamante Central Texas Gastrointestinal Clinic Histology laboratory. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: The documents accompanying this email transmission contain confidential information belonging to the sender that is legally privileged. This information is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. The authorized recipient of this information is prohibited from disclosing this information to any other party and is required to destroy the information after its stated need has been fulfilled. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution, or action taken in reliance on the contents of these documents is strictly prohibited. If you have received this email in error, please notify the sender immediately to arrange for return of these documents. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] embedding
On average, how many blocks should a tech with 6 years experience be able to embed in an hour? This is a dermpath lab, where the majority of our specimens are shave and punch biopsies. Thanks, Cindy ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] embedding
60 René J. --- On Thu, 5/24/12, cindy dewar cindy38...@yahoo.com wrote: From: cindy dewar cindy38...@yahoo.com Subject: [Histonet] embedding To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Thursday, May 24, 2012, 3:01 PM On average, how many blocks should a tech with 6 years experience be able to embed in an hour? This is a dermpath lab, where the majority of our specimens are shave and punch biopsies. Thanks, Cindy ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] embedding
If you are embedding skins and they all have to be on edge. And some of them are bisected or tri-sected and you have to put two to three pieces of skin in one cassette all on edge. I would say a good tech could do about 45-50 per hour. If they were all punches, then 60 would be about right. Loralee McMahon, HTL (ASCP) Immunohistochemistry Supervisor Strong Memorial Hospital Department of Surgical Pathology (585) 275-7210 From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa [rjbu...@yahoo.com] Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 3:55 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; cindy dewar Subject: Re: [Histonet] embedding 60 René J. --- On Thu, 5/24/12, cindy dewar cindy38...@yahoo.com wrote: From: cindy dewar cindy38...@yahoo.com Subject: [Histonet] embedding To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Thursday, May 24, 2012, 3:01 PM On average, how many blocks should a tech with 6 years experience be able to embed in an hour? This is a dermpath lab, where the majority of our specimens are shave and punch biopsies. Thanks, Cindy ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] Unregistered techs
Ok. I have to chime in on this one. Jay, I see your point. I'm neutral on this subject. I work with an unregistered tech (30yrs on the bench) and her work is excellent. For whatever reason she missed the dead line for the change on the OJT route on entry. I have worked with registered techs out there that do crappy work. So what is the difference between registered vs unregistered when it comes to their skills? Unregistered doesn't necessarily mean unqualified. Sent from the iPhone of Kim Tournear. On May 24, 2012, at 1:40 PM, Jay Lundgren jaylundg...@gmail.com wrote: Question 1: Why do health care organizations NOT hire unlicensed Physicians? Answer: Because of the maelstrom of malpractice suits, civil and criminal laws they would be breaking, ruined careers, prison, orphaned children etc. Question 2: Why do supervisors/lab managers hire unregistered (see previous posts) histotechs? Answer: Because they can pay them $12/hr instead of $30/hr. Many of them receive hefty bonuses for controlling costs. They get away with it. The most brilliant Pathologist in the world could NEVER EVEN SEE a malignancy that was rough cut away by an unqualified histotech. Jay A. Lundgren, M.S., HTL(ASCP) ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] Unregistered techs
Scott Lyons sln...@yahoo.com Give me a break, HTs and HTLs do not make diagnoses or treat patients. I am a registered HT and a Florida licensed HTL with 19 years experience, I've done it all in the lab. I believe the certification and licensure of techs is a scam to bleed more money from people. Honestly, you can train a monkey to do our job. And I don't want to hear from everyone saying it's an art form, we are just as much needed as pathologists, blah, blah, blah... I work where they are hiring people from a masters degree program for histology with certification, THEY KNOW NOTHING. Experience it where it's at, whether certified or not, get off your high horse. Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] Unregistered techs
Oh someone is going to get BLASTED and I'm so glad it's not me this time! But I have to say Shame shame for suggesting a monkey can do that job. Doesn't speak well of your work, but most techs I know are very talented. I can't do their work, and I like to think I am a little more evolved than a monkey. At least an ape for crying out loud! Sent from my Windows Phone From: Jay Lundgren Sent: 5/24/2012 2:02 PM To: Kim Tournear Cc: histonet Subject: Re: [Histonet] Unregistered techs Scott Lyons sln...@yahoo.com Give me a break, HTs and HTLs do not make diagnoses or treat patients. I am a registered HT and a Florida licensed HTL with 19 years experience, I've done it all in the lab. I believe the certification and licensure of techs is a scam to bleed more money from people. Honestly, you can train a monkey to do our job. And I don't want to hear from everyone saying it's an art form, we are just as much needed as pathologists, blah, blah, blah... I work where they are hiring people from a masters degree program for histology with certification, THEY KNOW NOTHING. Experience it where it's at, whether certified or not, get off your high horse. Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] Unregistered techs
I'm sorry - I cannot let this rest. The comment: we are just as much needed as pathologists, blah, blah, blah... is so upsetting I cannot sit back and listen to that without saying something! Everyone, regardless of their lot in life, is a very worthwhile part of the whole. Let me ask you a question, since you highly undervalue humans that are not MD's - let's say that you are a patient at Hospital X, and you go in to have your toenail removed. Who plays a more important role in your survival - the Podiatrist or the hospital janitor? I would argue that the janitor is more crucial in this instance, for if he/she fails to clean up the MRSA from the last patient you could conceivably die. The doctor solved your fungal problem, but the janitor prevented you from getting a potentially life-threatening infection. Think before you speak like that - everyone involved in your care is critical - and, yes, sometimes the doctor is not the most important person when it comes to keeping you alive and well! On Thu, May 24, 2012 at 2:01 PM, Jay Lundgren jaylundg...@gmail.com wrote: Scott Lyons sln...@yahoo.com Give me a break, HTs and HTLs do not make diagnoses or treat patients. I am a registered HT and a Florida licensed HTL with 19 years experience, I've done it all in the lab. I believe the certification and licensure of techs is a scam to bleed more money from people. Honestly, you can train a monkey to do our job. And I don't want to hear from everyone saying it's an art form, we are just as much needed as pathologists, blah, blah, blah... I work where they are hiring people from a masters degree program for histology with certification, THEY KNOW NOTHING. Experience it where it's at, whether certified or not, get off your high horse. Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet -- *David Costanzo, MHS, PA (ASCP)* Project Manager *Blufrog Path Lab Solutions* 9401 Wilshire Blvd. Ste 650 Beverly Hills, CA 90212 ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] Unregistered techs
I have respected Jay's input in the past, but I too must say something. Without realizing it, and by stating his opinion in a horribly crass way, Jay has touched upon an important truism. There are two types of histologists, those that have a job that pays the bills, and those who have a career in which they thrive. Neither are better than the other, both are needed. I suspect, however, that the majority of Histonetters -- especially avid contributors are in the latter group. I know I am. Histotechs who approach histology as a job, go into work, embed, cut, stain and go home. they are excellent techs, but are just not committed to expanding the field or doing more than is needed to provide the pathologist with a perfect slide. Jay refers to these people as no better than trained monkeys. That is a horrible insult with a small (very small) grain of truth. One day those histologists will be replaced by a mechanical/robotic process. The march of progress is unstoppable. The career histologist has a much longer life span however. We analyze and troubleshoot problems. We understand or endeavor to learn the organic chemistry of stains. We know EXACTLY how a Rabbit Monoclonal antibody is made. We know more about the practice of histology than ANY pathologist. We invent and develop antibodies and special stains. And we conceptualize and perfect the instruments that will replace the first group in the future. Jay, that is why so many are offended. We don't do this simply because it is a good paycheck. We are histologists because we are professionals who choose this career. You may be going to a job cutting slides (which is great and necessary), but we are enjoying our life. Will Chappell, HTL (ASCP), QIHC, MBA and histologist by choice, not accident On May 24, 2012, at 6:48 PM, Davide Costanzo wrote: I'm sorry - I cannot let this rest. The comment: we are just as much needed as pathologists, blah, blah, blah... is so upsetting I cannot sit back and listen to that without saying something! Everyone, regardless of their lot in life, is a very worthwhile part of the whole. Let me ask you a question, since you highly undervalue humans that are not MD's - let's say that you are a patient at Hospital X, and you go in to have your toenail removed. Who plays a more important role in your survival - the Podiatrist or the hospital janitor? I would argue that the janitor is more crucial in this instance, for if he/she fails to clean up the MRSA from the last patient you could conceivably die. The doctor solved your fungal problem, but the janitor prevented you from getting a potentially life-threatening infection. Think before you speak like that - everyone involved in your care is critical - and, yes, sometimes the doctor is not the most important person when it comes to keeping you alive and well! On Thu, May 24, 2012 at 2:01 PM, Jay Lundgren jaylundg...@gmail.com wrote: Scott Lyons sln...@yahoo.com Give me a break, HTs and HTLs do not make diagnoses or treat patients. I am a registered HT and a Florida licensed HTL with 19 years experience, I've done it all in the lab. I believe the certification and licensure of techs is a scam to bleed more money from people. Honestly, you can train a monkey to do our job. And I don't want to hear from everyone saying it's an art form, we are just as much needed as pathologists, blah, blah, blah... I work where they are hiring people from a masters degree program for histology with certification, THEY KNOW NOTHING. Experience it where it's at, whether certified or not, get off your high horse. Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet -- *David Costanzo, MHS, PA (ASCP)* Project Manager *Blufrog Path Lab Solutions* 9401 Wilshire Blvd. Ste 650 Beverly Hills, CA 90212 ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] Unregistered techs
Holy buckets, that's a shot below the belt! Must say, I'm quite surprised to see a comment like that from someone with 19 years experience. By the by, I understand the registered HT thing, what is a Florida licensed HTL? Is that something new? But I digress. I can see your point about the scam/bleed money thing, but that's another discussion. You think monkeys can be trained to do histology...well, you're entitled to your opinion. However, the validity of an opinion depends on its basis. In my opinion monkeys cannot be trained to do our job. I'm quite certain that everything I did in the lab today (before returning to my office, reading this post and writing my response) would be challenging for a lot of folks...pathologists included...let alone a smart monkey. I'm a bit confused seeing the name Scott Lyons in the post below, so I don't want to direct my response to the wrong person. If this is indeed you, Jay, I've read many of your posts in the past. In consideration of that, I'm thinking maybe you're exaggerating to make a point, maybe having/had a bad day or both. I agree there is no substitute for experience. And I agree that many people with advanced degrees can be all thumbs in a lab, or maybe have a hard time transitioning book learning into hands on action. Come to think of it monkeys are pretty dexterous...so maybe we're taking this all wrong. I'm not responding to light someone up or get into a war or words with. I'll just say that I hold those of us doing this work in high regard, monkey or not. And that includes you too Jay...I've not met you personally, but honestly you're no monkey. Regards, Tom Jasper Thomas Jasper HT (ASCP) BAS Histology Supervisor Central Oregon Regional Pathology Services Bend, Oregon 97701 -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Jay Lundgren Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 2:02 PM To: Kim Tournear Cc: histonet Subject: Re: [Histonet] Unregistered techs Scott Lyons sln...@yahoo.com Give me a break, HTs and HTLs do not make diagnoses or treat patients. I am a registered HT and a Florida licensed HTL with 19 years experience, I've done it all in the lab. I believe the certification and licensure of techs is a scam to bleed more money from people. Honestly, you can train a monkey to do our job. And I don't want to hear from everyone saying it's an art form, we are just as much needed as pathologists, blah, blah, blah... I work where they are hiring people from a masters degree program for histology with certification, THEY KNOW NOTHING. Experience it where it's at, whether certified or not, get off your high horse. Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] Unregistered techs
Let me add more fuel to this fire. Will makes strong points. I have been in this field over 35 years ( has it been that long) Any way. I have worked in and have managed many labs. I have had registered and unregistered techs. Some good, some not so good, some I told that their talents would be better served in another career field. Some people in histology come for the pay, others for a career. However, I have seen some clinicians, nurses and other healthcare providers do the same. I went to a neurologist once (emphasis on once). I was trying to explain to him my lengthy previous medical history, which has been plagued by heart problems for years. He was not interested in that. He wanted to get me in and get me out within the 15 minute time limit. My point is this: I don't care what job you do, there are going to be people who look at it as a job, others look at as a career. My youngest sister had some cognitive issues. She worked at minimum wage jobs all her life. One job was at a laundry mat that had several large accounts. I met her for lunch one day before I joined the Air Force. I watched her fold sheets so tight that they looked like you would cut your fingers on them if you ran them across the creases. I asked her why she took so much care in folding the sheets. She looked at me and said Joey, I do it because anything you do, you have to do it good. If you ain't gonna do it good, don't do it at all. I still carry that notion and I hope I have passed that idea onto my children. When I was in Basic Training, making my bunk, I would always think of that day with my sister. Consider yourself lucky if you work with more people who think Histology as a career rather than just a job. I always do. I'll get off my soap box now and return you to regular programing. Joe Nocito -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of William Chappell Sent: Thursday, May 24, 2012 6:03 PM To: Davide Costanzo Cc: histonet Subject: Re: [Histonet] Unregistered techs I have respected Jay's input in the past, but I too must say something. Without realizing it, and by stating his opinion in a horribly crass way, Jay has touched upon an important truism. There are two types of histologists, those that have a job that pays the bills, and those who have a career in which they thrive. Neither are better than the other, both are needed. I suspect, however, that the majority of Histonetters -- especially avid contributors are in the latter group. I know I am. Histotechs who approach histology as a job, go into work, embed, cut, stain and go home. they are excellent techs, but are just not committed to expanding the field or doing more than is needed to provide the pathologist with a perfect slide. Jay refers to these people as no better than trained monkeys. That is a horrible insult with a small (very small) grain of truth. One day those histologists will be replaced by a mechanical/robotic process. The march of progress is unstoppable. The career histologist has a much longer life span however. We analyze and troubleshoot problems. We understand or endeavor to learn the organic chemistry of stains. We know EXACTLY how a Rabbit Monoclonal antibody is made. We know more about the practice of histology than ANY pathologist. We invent and develop antibodies and special stains. And we conceptualize and perfect the instruments that will replace the first group in the future. Jay, that is why so many are offended. We don't do this simply because it is a good paycheck. We are histologists because we are professionals who choose this career. You may be going to a job cutting slides (which is great and necessary), but we are enjoying our life. Will Chappell, HTL (ASCP), QIHC, MBA and histologist by choice, not accident On May 24, 2012, at 6:48 PM, Davide Costanzo wrote: I'm sorry - I cannot let this rest. The comment: we are just as much needed as pathologists, blah, blah, blah... is so upsetting I cannot sit back and listen to that without saying something! Everyone, regardless of their lot in life, is a very worthwhile part of the whole. Let me ask you a question, since you highly undervalue humans that are not MD's - let's say that you are a patient at Hospital X, and you go in to have your toenail removed. Who plays a more important role in your survival - the Podiatrist or the hospital janitor? I would argue that the janitor is more crucial in this instance, for if he/she fails to clean up the MRSA from the last patient you could conceivably die. The doctor solved your fungal problem, but the janitor prevented you from getting a potentially life-threatening infection. Think before you speak like that - everyone involved in your care is critical - and, yes, sometimes the doctor is not the most important person when it comes to keeping you alive and well! On Thu, May 24, 2012 at 2:01
Re: [Histonet] Unregistered techs
I've personally tried to train monkeys to do this - they suck at it. I've trained a lot of histotechs, and learned early on that not just any Joe Schmo can do this job (my apologies to any real Joe Schmo's out there). There is a certain skill level and intelligence needed to perform good microtomy, optimize and antibody, or troubleshoot a special stain. I've been in labs where people were just told 'this is a block, put it in the holder on that machine, crank the handle as fast as you can, and pick up what comes off. LITERALLY. This is a skill, and it requires talent. To be good at it requires intelligence and good training. To be great at it requires desire. You're really lucky if you love your job, and I do love this work.I can clicker train monkeys and dogs, but not histotechs. Jackie O' -Original Message- From: William Chappell cha...@yahoo.com To: Davide Costanzo pathloc...@gmail.com Cc: histonet histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thu, May 24, 2012 6:02 pm Subject: Re: [Histonet] Unregistered techs I have respected Jay's input in the past, but I too must say something. Without realizing it, and by stating his opinion in a horribly crass way, Jay has touched upon an important truism. There are two types of histologists, those that have a job that pays the bills, and those who have a career in which they thrive. Neither are better than the other, both are needed. I suspect, however, that the majority of Histonetters -- especially avid contributors are in the latter group. I know I am. Histotechs who approach histology as a job, go into work, embed, cut, stain and go home. they are excellent techs, but are just not committed to expanding the field or doing more than is needed to provide the pathologist with a perfect slide. Jay refers to these people as no better than trained monkeys. That is a horrible insult with a small (very small) grain of truth. One day those histologists will be replaced by a mechanical/robotic process. The march of progress is unstoppable. The career histologist has a much longer life span however. We analyze and troubleshoot problems. We understand or endeavor to learn the organic chemistry of stains. We know EXACTLY how a Rabbit Monoclonal antibody is made. We know more about the practice of histology than ANY pathologist. We invent and develop antibodies and special stains. And we conceptualize and perfect the instruments that will replace the first group in the future. Jay, that is why so many are offended. We don't do this simply because it is a good paycheck. We are histologists because we are professionals who choose this career. You may be going to a job cutting slides (which is great and necessary), but we are enjoying our life. Will Chappell, HTL (ASCP), QIHC, MBA and histologist by choice, not accident On May 24, 2012, at 6:48 PM, Davide Costanzo wrote: I'm sorry - I cannot let this rest. The comment: we are just as much needed as pathologists, blah, blah, blah... is so upsetting I cannot sit back and listen to that without saying something! Everyone, regardless of their lot in life, is a very worthwhile part of the whole. Let me ask you a question, since you highly undervalue humans that are not MD's - let's say that you are a patient at Hospital X, and you go in to have your toenail removed. Who plays a more important role in your survival - the Podiatrist or the hospital janitor? I would argue that the janitor is more crucial in this instance, for if he/she fails to clean up the MRSA from the last patient you could conceivably die. The doctor solved your fungal problem, but the janitor prevented you from getting a potentially life-threatening infection. Think before you speak like that - everyone involved in your care is critical - and, yes, sometimes the doctor is not the most important person when it comes to keeping you alive and well! On Thu, May 24, 2012 at 2:01 PM, Jay Lundgren jaylundg...@gmail.com wrote: Scott Lyons sln...@yahoo.com Give me a break, HTs and HTLs do not make diagnoses or treat patients. I am a registered HT and a Florida licensed HTL with 19 years experience, I've done it all in the lab. I believe the certification and licensure of techs is a scam to bleed more money from people. Honestly, you can train a monkey to do our job. And I don't want to hear from everyone saying it's an art form, we are just as much needed as pathologists, blah, blah, blah... I work where they are hiring people from a masters degree program for histology with certification, THEY KNOW NOTHING. Experience it where it's at, whether certified or not, get off your high horse. Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu
[Histonet] AUTO: Gina Rodriguez is out of the office. (returning 05/29/2012)
I am out of the office until 05/29/2012. I will respond to your message when I return. If you need immediate assistance please contact 800-248-0123 or tech.supp...@leica-microsystems.com Note: This is an automated response to your message Histonet Digest, Vol 102, Issue 32 sent on 5/24/2012 8:08:27 PM. This is the only notification you will receive while this person is away. _ This e-mail has been scanned for viruses by Verizon Business Internet Managed Scanning Services - powered by MessageLabs. For further information visit http://www.verizonbusiness.com/uk ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
