Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks
I guess it sounds like I am on both sides here! I do see aspects from each. The need does arise when not everyone is comitted and on task, or even cares. The trouble starts I think when numbers are applied by people who have never done the task and so think it is very easy and simple to do well. Sent from my Verizon Wireless 4G LTE Smartphone - Reply message - From: joelle weaver joellewea...@hotmail.com To: j...@cdc.gov, cont...@histocare.com, histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks Date: Thu, Oct 25, 2012 12:58 pm I do agree with your embedding comment. The skill of the embedding makes a huge impact on both speed and quality, and if they know how to embed for microtomy' or just throw the thing in there- also the processing and block temperature as well as the tissue types and protocols. Can't say I time myself to a certain number of rotations, I go more on judgment and visuals, but I did learn efficiency techniques (along with the water bath concerns) as part of my histology training which have served me well. There are a lot of variables I do agree, but you can still try to optimize. Managers have to have a way to benchmark and measure. If you build into the number allowances for some variables, I think you can still get some insight into productivity of that step, but it is difficult to make hard and fast rules or lines or numbers that apply to all lab situations. I think use of in-house numbers are best, tempered with studies and stats such as Renee's for reference if your management insists on numbers and values ( and most do). Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: j...@cdc.gov To: cont...@histocare.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Thu, 25 Oct 2012 16:28:47 + Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks CC: You mention how many rotations you use for facing your blocks. That assumes whoever did the embedding did a good job. And even with no unnecessary ribbons.whether there are extra sections or not, you still have to keep the water bath scrupulously clean which means wiping out with a Kimwipe after each block...whether there are ribbons floating or not. Jeanine H. Bartlett Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch 404-639-3590 jeanine.bartl...@cdc.hhs.gov -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Contact HistoCare Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:23 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi, To most folks that number does seem high but I've met many old school techs who can do this easily. One of my first learning experiences was watching a 57 year old woman crank out tons of slides with no errors and who regularly got praises from the pathologists for producing the most beautiful slides. While I have never been required to produce a certain amount within a certain window, I have built up the ability to cut a lot more than 50 per hour. I have even doubled this number. Of course it depends on the tissue type, but assuming properly decalcified bone, nothing popping out of the block, and a cold block of ice, it's very easy for me to produce a high quality slide at 3,4,5 microns. I get compliments all the time of my slides. My methods are quite different from most techs though. When facing, I don't waste movements. I actually count the rotations and spend less than 8 seconds facing each block. I also get the right section usually in about the third or fourth crank and I only put at the most two sections in the water bath to pick up. I don't cut unnecessary ribbons just to have them sit in the water bath and eventually have to wipe away with the Kimwipe, which in my opinion is wasteful of both materials and time. I also make sure I have enough ice to keep the blocks very cold and adequately hydrated. I'm not sure if being in decent physical shape matters but I think it gives me the arm stamina to do this. I use only my wrists and fingers and not my whole arm in the rotational motion. Hope this helps, M www.HistoCare.com From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break
RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks
As a histo lab supervisor I would never ask nor demand that my techs do something that I cannot do myself. I would have to say that that number sounds a little high to me, but it would depend on the type of specimens being cut. Just my thought, Mike -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Dorothy Ragland-Glass Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 7:38 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks
Absolutely! 40-50 bone marrows is completely different from 40-50 fallopian tubes. Are you just cutting one section per block? Jeanine H. Bartlett Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch 404-639-3590 jeanine.bartl...@cdc.hhs.gov -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mike Pence Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 8:50 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks As a histo lab supervisor I would never ask nor demand that my techs do something that I cannot do myself. I would have to say that that number sounds a little high to me, but it would depend on the type of specimens being cut. Just my thought, Mike -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Dorothy Ragland-Glass Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 7:38 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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] Number of blocks
No. My main duty is Ihc, but I heard the other techs, mostly the ones new to histology and some older techs who informed them on how obsurd and impossible that task would be for them to try to live up to that standard. The newbees thought that was what the speed of a histotech should be. They were told it did not matter what the tissue was accordding to CAP. Us older techs know different. But we need written documentation to show the young turks who are being bullied. Is there something to written to give them a leg to stand up. Bartlett, Jeanine (CDC/OID/NCEZID) j...@cdc.gov wrote: Absolutely! 40-50 bone marrows is completely different from 40-50 fallopian tubes. Are you just cutting one section per block? Jeanine H. Bartlett Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch 404-639-3590 jeanine.bartl...@cdc.hhs.gov -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mike Pence Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 8:50 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks As a histo lab supervisor I would never ask nor demand that my techs do something that I cannot do myself. I would have to say that that number sounds a little high to me, but it would depend on the type of specimens being cut. Just my thought, Mike -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Dorothy Ragland-Glass Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 7:38 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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] Number of blocks
Hi Dorothy: Your manager is wrong and probably influenced by some productivity consultant trying to appear tough or preparing to justiffy a staff reduction. The average sectioning productivity obtained in 325 histology laboratories (221 in the US and 114 in 24 foreign countries) is 24 blocks per hour. Under separate cover I am sending two articles dealing with this issue and that of staffing that you will be able to show to your manager. René J. From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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] Number of blocks
Many years ago in histology training at AFIP, we were taught that the quota was 30 blocks an hour. As someone stated before, certain tissue types are easy to cut and are 1-2 sections per slide making that 40-50 block/hr rate a bit reasonable. When you're leveling prostates, skins, cutting specials or unstained, working with dry, difficult, or fatty tissue, slide turn out time is increased. I remember recently seeing someone talking about cutting 80 blocks/hr and the folks I work with could see the multiple question marks above my head because that seems impossible to me at less than 30 seconds per block. No offense to anyone who can do this. More power to you! I looked in a few histology books, but could not find a written reference on how fast a tech should cut. Consistent, good sections placed on the slide in a neat manner should also be factored into the equation. *hops off soapbox* Brendal C.Finlay, HT (ASCP) -Original message- From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com Date: Thu, 25 Oct 2012 08:10:20 -0500 To: Bartlett, Jeanine (CDC/OID/NCEZID) j...@cdc.gov, Mike pencempe...@grhs.net, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks No. My main duty is Ihc, but I heard the other techs, mostly the ones new to histology and some older techs who informed them on how obsurd and impossible that task would be for them to try to live up to that standard. The newbees thought that was what the speed of a histotech should be. They were told it did not matter what the tissue was accordding to CAP. Us older techs know different. But we need written documentation to show the young turks who are being bullied. Is there something to written to give them a leg to stand up. Bartlett, Jeanine (CDC/OID/NCEZID)wrote: Absolutely! 40-50 bone marrows is completely different from 40-50 fallopian tubes. Are you just cutting one section per block? Jeanine H. Bartlett Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch 404-639-3590 jeanine.bartl...@cdc.hhs.gov -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mike Pence Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 8:50 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks As a histo lab supervisor I would never ask nor demand that my techs do something that I cannot do myself. I would have to say that that number sounds a little high to me, but it woulddepend on the type of specimens being cut. Just my thought, Mike -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Dorothy Ragland-Glass Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 7:38 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly thatmany blocks without a break. ___ 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] Number of blocks
Although almost 20 years ago, the reference lab I worked in had similar expectations. They also had no idea that GARBAGE IN= GARBAGE OUT, and we had an unusually high number of recuts. Smaller sections in the cassette or longer fixation would have reduced that number. -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Brendal Finlay Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:21 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks Many years ago in histology training at AFIP, we were taught that the quota was 30 blocks an hour. As someone stated before, certain tissue types are easy to cut and are 1-2 sections per slide making that 40-50 block/hr rate a bit reasonable. When you're leveling prostates, skins, cutting specials or unstained, working with dry, difficult, or fatty tissue, slide turn out time is increased. I remember recently seeing someone talking about cutting 80 blocks/hr and the folks I work with could see the multiple question marks above my head because that seems impossible to me at less than 30 seconds per block. No offense to anyone who can do this. More power to you! I looked in a few histology books, but could not find a written reference on how fast a tech should cut. Consistent, good sections placed on the slide in a neat manner should also be factored into the equation. *hops off soapbox* Brendal C.Finlay, HT (ASCP) -Original message- From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com Date: Thu, 25 Oct 2012 08:10:20 -0500 To: Bartlett, Jeanine (CDC/OID/NCEZID) j...@cdc.gov, Mike pencempe...@grhs.net, Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks No. My main duty is Ihc, but I heard the other techs, mostly the ones new to histology and some older techs who informed them on how obsurd and impossible that task would be for them to try to live up to that standard. The newbees thought that was what the speed of a histotech should be. They were told it did not matter what the tissue was accordding to CAP. Us older techs know different. But we need written documentation to show the young turks who are being bullied. Is there something to written to give them a leg to stand up. Bartlett, Jeanine (CDC/OID/NCEZID)wrote: Absolutely! 40-50 bone marrows is completely different from 40-50 fallopian tubes. Are you just cutting one section per block? Jeanine H. Bartlett Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch 404-639-3590 jeanine.bartl...@cdc.hhs.gov -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mike Pence Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 8:50 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks As a histo lab supervisor I would never ask nor demand that my techs do something that I cannot do myself. I would have to say that that number sounds a little high to me, but it woulddepend on the type of specimens being cut. Just my thought, Mike -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Dorothy Ragland-Glass Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 7:38 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly thatmany blocks without a break. ___ 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] Number of blocks
Rene, I have been asked in the past about productivity in our department. Can you share those articles with me as well? Thanks!! Valerie Valerie A. Hannen, MLT(ASCP),HTL,SU(FL) Histology Section Chief Parrish Medical Center 951 N. Washington Ave. Titusville, Florida 32976 Phone:(321) 268-6333 ext. 7506 Fax: (321) 268-6149 valerie.han...@parrishmed.com -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:18 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi Dorothy: Your manager is wrong and probably influenced by some productivity consultant trying to appear tough or preparing to justiffy a staff reduction. The average sectioning productivity obtained in 325 histology laboratories (221 in the US and 114 in 24 foreign countries) is 24 blocks per hour. Under separate cover I am sending two articles dealing with this issue and that of staffing that you will be able to show to your manager. René J. From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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 =This email is intended solely for the use of the individual to whom it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this email is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately delete this message. Thank you = ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks
In fact, can you share them with all of histonet? Sent from my iPhone On Oct 25, 2012, at 7:33 AM, Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com wrote: Rene, I have been asked in the past about productivity in our department. Can you share those articles with me as well? Thanks!! Valerie Valerie A. Hannen, MLT(ASCP),HTL,SU(FL) Histology Section Chief Parrish Medical Center 951 N. Washington Ave. Titusville, Florida 32976 Phone:(321) 268-6333 ext. 7506 Fax: (321) 268-6149 valerie.han...@parrishmed.com -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:18 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi Dorothy: Your manager is wrong and probably influenced by some productivity consultant trying to appear tough or preparing to justiffy a staff reduction. The average sectioning productivity obtained in 325 histology laboratories (221 in the US and 114 in 24 foreign countries) is 24 blocks per hour. Under separate cover I am sending two articles dealing with this issue and that of staffing that you will be able to show to your manager. René J. From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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 == This email is intended solely for the use of the individual to whom it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this email is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately delete this message. Thank you == ___ 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] Number of blocks
Will: I would like to do that very much but unfortunately Histonet is set in a way that they do not accept atttachments and any e-mail with them will not go through. René J. From: Will Chappell cha...@yahoo.com To: Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com Cc: Rene J Buesa rjbu...@yahoo.com; Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:37 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks In fact, can you share them with all of histonet? Sent from my iPhone On Oct 25, 2012, at 7:33 AM, Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com wrote: Rene, I have been asked in the past about productivity in our department. Can you share those articles with me as well? Thanks!! Valerie Valerie A. Hannen, MLT(ASCP),HTL,SU(FL) Histology Section Chief Parrish Medical Center 951 N. Washington Ave. Titusville, Florida 32976 Phone:(321) 268-6333 ext. 7506 Fax: (321) 268-6149 valerie.han...@parrishmed.com -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:18 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi Dorothy: Your manager is wrong and probably influenced by some productivity consultant trying to appear tough or preparing to justiffy a staff reduction. The average sectioning productivity obtained in 325 histology laboratories (221 in the US and 114 in 24 foreign countries) is 24 blocks per hour. Under separate cover I am sending two articles dealing with this issue and that of staffing that you will be able to show to your manager. René J. From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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 == This email is intended solely for the use of the individual to whom it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this email is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately delete this message. Thank you == ___ 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] Number of blocks
If you don't mind me butting here in Rene, most of your papers are available in full on Pubmed. Cheers Richard -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: 25 October 2012 16:00 To: Will Chappell; Hannen, Valerie Cc: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Will: I would like to do that very much but unfortunately Histonet is set in a way that they do not accept atttachments and any e-mail with them will not go through. René J. From: Will Chappell cha...@yahoo.com To: Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com Cc: Rene J Buesa rjbu...@yahoo.com; Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:37 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks In fact, can you share them with all of histonet? Sent from my iPhone On Oct 25, 2012, at 7:33 AM, Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com wrote: Rene, I have been asked in the past about productivity in our department. Can you share those articles with me as well? Thanks!! Valerie Valerie A. Hannen, MLT(ASCP),HTL,SU(FL) Histology Section Chief Parrish Medical Center 951 N. Washington Ave. Titusville, Florida 32976 Phone:(321) 268-6333 ext. 7506 Fax: (321) 268-6149 valerie.han...@parrishmed.com -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:18 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi Dorothy: Your manager is wrong and probably influenced by some productivity consultant trying to appear tough or preparing to justiffy a staff reduction. The average sectioning productivity obtained in 325 histology laboratories (221 in the US and 114 in 24 foreign countries) is 24 blocks per hour. Under separate cover I am sending two articles dealing with this issue and that of staffing that you will be able to show to your manager. René J. From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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 == This email is intended solely for the use of the individual to whom it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this email is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately delete this message. Thank you == ___ 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] Number of blocks
Can we get a mailing list for these files? I would love to see these articles as well. dcosta...@pathmdlabs.com Thanks Rene Sent from my iPhone On Oct 25, 2012, at 8:00 AM, Rene J Buesa rjbu...@yahoo.com wrote: Will: I would like to do that very much but unfortunately Histonet is set in a way that they do not accept atttachments and any e-mail with them will not go through. René J. From: Will Chappell cha...@yahoo.com To: Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com Cc: Rene J Buesa rjbu...@yahoo.com; Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:37 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks In fact, can you share them with all of histonet? Sent from my iPhone On Oct 25, 2012, at 7:33 AM, Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com wrote: Rene, I have been asked in the past about productivity in our department. Can you share those articles with me as well? Thanks!! Valerie Valerie A. Hannen, MLT(ASCP),HTL,SU(FL) Histology Section Chief Parrish Medical Center 951 N. Washington Ave. Titusville, Florida 32976 Phone:(321) 268-6333 ext. 7506 Fax: (321) 268-6149 valerie.han...@parrishmed.com -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:18 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi Dorothy: Your manager is wrong and probably influenced by some productivity consultant trying to appear tough or preparing to justiffy a staff reduction. The average sectioning productivity obtained in 325 histology laboratories (221 in the US and 114 in 24 foreign countries) is 24 blocks per hour. Under separate cover I am sending two articles dealing with this issue and that of staffing that you will be able to show to your manager. René J. From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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 == This email is intended solely for the use of the individual to whom it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this email is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately delete this message. Thank you == ___ 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] Number of blocks
Can you list the article, because I to would be interested. -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:00 AM To: Will Chappell; Hannen, Valerie Cc: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Will: I would like to do that very much but unfortunately Histonet is set in a way that they do not accept atttachments and any e-mail with them will not go through. René J. From: Will Chappell cha...@yahoo.com To: Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com Cc: Rene J Buesa rjbu...@yahoo.com; Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:37 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks In fact, can you share them with all of histonet? Sent from my iPhone On Oct 25, 2012, at 7:33 AM, Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com wrote: Rene, I have been asked in the past about productivity in our department. Can you share those articles with me as well? Thanks!! Valerie Valerie A. Hannen, MLT(ASCP),HTL,SU(FL) Histology Section Chief Parrish Medical Center 951 N. Washington Ave. Titusville, Florida 32976 Phone:(321) 268-6333 ext. 7506 Fax: (321) 268-6149 valerie.han...@parrishmed.com -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:18 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi Dorothy: Your manager is wrong and probably influenced by some productivity consultant trying to appear tough or preparing to justiffy a staff reduction. The average sectioning productivity obtained in 325 histology laboratories (221 in the US and 114 in 24 foreign countries) is 24 blocks per hour. Under separate cover I am sending two articles dealing with this issue and that of staffing that you will be able to show to your manager. René J. From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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 == This email is intended solely for the use of the individual to whom it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this email is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately delete this message. Thank you == ___ 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 __ CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: The information in this e-mail may be confidential and/or privileged. If you are not the intended recipient or an authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination, or copying of this e-mail and its attachments, if any, or the information contained herein is prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this e-mail from your computer system. Thank you. __ ___ Histonet mailing
Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks
Believe it or not, I did not know that my articles were available in Pubmed. Perhaps Richard Edwards can give you the mailing list. René J. From: Davide Costanzo pathloc...@gmail.com To: Rene J Buesa rjbu...@yahoo.com Cc: Will Chappell cha...@yahoo.com; Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 11:04 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Can we get a mailing list for these files? I would love to see these articles as well. dcosta...@pathmdlabs.com Thanks Rene Sent from my iPhone On Oct 25, 2012, at 8:00 AM, Rene J Buesa rjbu...@yahoo.com wrote: Will: I would like to do that very much but unfortunately Histonet is set in a way that they do not accept atttachments and any e-mail with them will not go through. René J. From: Will Chappell cha...@yahoo.com To: Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com Cc: Rene J Buesa rjbu...@yahoo.com; Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:37 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks In fact, can you share them with all of histonet? Sent from my iPhone On Oct 25, 2012, at 7:33 AM, Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com wrote: Rene, I have been asked in the past about productivity in our department. Can you share those articles with me as well? Thanks!! Valerie Valerie A. Hannen, MLT(ASCP),HTL,SU(FL) Histology Section Chief Parrish Medical Center 951 N. Washington Ave. Titusville, Florida 32976 Phone:(321) 268-6333 ext. 7506 Fax: (321) 268-6149 valerie.han...@parrishmed.com -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:18 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi Dorothy: Your manager is wrong and probably influenced by some productivity consultant trying to appear tough or preparing to justiffy a staff reduction. The average sectioning productivity obtained in 325 histology laboratories (221 in the US and 114 in 24 foreign countries) is 24 blocks per hour. Under separate cover I am sending two articles dealing with this issue and that of staffing that you will be able to show to your manager. René J. From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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 == This email is intended solely for the use of the individual to whom it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this email is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately delete this message. Thank you == ___ 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] Number of blocks
I do not know how to do that! René J. From: Nails, Felton flna...@texaschildrens.org To: 'Rene J Buesa' rjbu...@yahoo.com; Will Chappell cha...@yahoo.com; Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com Cc: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 11:06 AM Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks Can you list the article, because I to would be interested. -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:00 AM To: Will Chappell; Hannen, Valerie Cc: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Will: I would like to do that very much but unfortunately Histonet is set in a way that they do not accept atttachments and any e-mail with them will not go through. René J. From: Will Chappell cha...@yahoo.com To: Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com Cc: Rene J Buesa rjbu...@yahoo.com; Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:37 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks In fact, can you share them with all of histonet? Sent from my iPhone On Oct 25, 2012, at 7:33 AM, Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com wrote: Rene, I have been asked in the past about productivity in our department. Can you share those articles with me as well? Thanks!! Valerie Valerie A. Hannen, MLT(ASCP),HTL,SU(FL) Histology Section Chief Parrish Medical Center 951 N. Washington Ave. Titusville, Florida 32976 Phone:(321) 268-6333 ext. 7506 Fax: (321) 268-6149 valerie.han...@parrishmed.com -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:18 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi Dorothy: Your manager is wrong and probably influenced by some productivity consultant trying to appear tough or preparing to justiffy a staff reduction. The average sectioning productivity obtained in 325 histology laboratories (221 in the US and 114 in 24 foreign countries) is 24 blocks per hour. Under separate cover I am sending two articles dealing with this issue and that of staffing that you will be able to show to your manager. René J. From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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 == This email is intended solely for the use of the individual to whom it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this email is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately delete this message. Thank you == ___ 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 __ CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: The information in this e-mail may be confidential and/or privileged. If you are not the intended recipient or an authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination, or copying
Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks
No problem. This will list all articles by Buesa RJ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=Buesa%20RJ%20[au] Greetings, V. Neubert Am 25.10.2012 17:26, schrieb Rene J Buesa: I do not know how to do that! René J. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks
Hi Rene and Histonetters, Thanks Rene. I posted the articles on Histosearch. http://www.histosearch.com/ADP9ProductivityStandards.pdf http://www.histosearch.com/ADP10StaffingBenchmarks.pdf Marvin On 10/25/2012 11:29 AM, Rene J Buesa wrote: Hi Marvin: See attachments. Do you mean that you can post them? I have some other articles about histology topics. Can I send them to you as well? René J. *From:* Marvin Hanna mha...@histosearch.com *To:* Rene J Buesa rjbu...@yahoo.com *Sent:* Thursday, October 25, 2012 11:18 AM *Subject:* Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi Rene, Send the attachments to me and I can post them on Histosearch, Marvin Hannamailto:webmas...@histosearch.com ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks
Thank you René J. From: V. Neubert histonet.nos...@vneubert.com To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 11:33 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks No problem. This will list all articles by Buesa RJ http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=Buesa%20RJ%20[au] Greetings, V. Neubert Am 25.10.2012 17:26, schrieb Rene J Buesa: I do not know how to do that! René J. ___ 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] Number of blocks
I find it interesting that this issue comes up every so often on Histonet. There are so many factors that affect the time it takes to get a quality section that it seems silly to set an arbitrary number that techs are expected to reach. In my opinion, this is trying to find a way to measure productivity on a process that has too many variables to be accurately measured. I can understand the desire to find a way to measure this productivity, but my number one rule is still quality over quantity. Michael J. Dessoye, M.S. | Histology Supervisor | Wilkes-Barre General Hospital | An Affiliate of Commonwealth Health | mjdess...@commonwealthhealth.net | 575 N. River Street | Wilkes Barre, PA 18764 | Tel: 570-552-1432 | Fax: 570-552-1526 -Original Message- From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass [mailto:techman...@yahoo.com] Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the originator of the message. This footer also confirms that this email message has been scanned for the presence of computer viruses. Any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifies and with authority, states them to be the views of Commonwealth Health. Scanning of this message and addition of this footer is performed by Websense Email Security software in conjunction with virus detection software. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks
Thanks to all that responded to my question on productivity. Marvin Hanna mha...@histosearch.com wrote: Hi Rene and Histonetters, Thanks Rene. I posted the articles on Histosearch. http://www.histosearch.com/ADP9ProductivityStandards.pdf http://www.histosearch.com/ADP10StaffingBenchmarks.pdf Marvin On 10/25/2012 11:29 AM, Rene J Buesa wrote: Hi Marvin: See attachments. Do you mean that you can post them? I have some other articles about histology topics. Can I send them to you as well? René J. *From:* Marvin Hanna mha...@histosearch.com *To:* Rene J Buesa rjbu...@yahoo.com *Sent:* Thursday, October 25, 2012 11:18 AM *Subject:* Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi Rene, Send the attachments to me and I can post them on Histosearch, Marvin Hannamailto:webmas...@histosearch.com ___ 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] Number of blocks
You mention how many rotations you use for facing your blocks. That assumes whoever did the embedding did a good job. And even with no unnecessary ribbons.whether there are extra sections or not, you still have to keep the water bath scrupulously clean which means wiping out with a Kimwipe after each block...whether there are ribbons floating or not. Jeanine H. Bartlett Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch 404-639-3590 jeanine.bartl...@cdc.hhs.gov -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Contact HistoCare Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:23 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi, To most folks that number does seem high but I've met many old school techs who can do this easily. One of my first learning experiences was watching a 57 year old woman crank out tons of slides with no errors and who regularly got praises from the pathologists for producing the most beautiful slides. While I have never been required to produce a certain amount within a certain window, I have built up the ability to cut a lot more than 50 per hour. I have even doubled this number. Of course it depends on the tissue type, but assuming properly decalcified bone, nothing popping out of the block, and a cold block of ice, it's very easy for me to produce a high quality slide at 3,4,5 microns. I get compliments all the time of my slides. My methods are quite different from most techs though. When facing, I don't waste movements. I actually count the rotations and spend less than 8 seconds facing each block. I also get the right section usually in about the third or fourth crank and I only put at the most two sections in the water bath to pick up. I don't cut unnecessary ribbons just to have them sit in the water bath and eventually have to wipe away with the Kimwipe, which in my opinion is wasteful of both materials and time. I also make sure I have enough ice to keep the blocks very cold and adequately hydrated. I'm not sure if being in decent physical shape matters but I think it gives me the arm stamina to do this. I use only my wrists and fingers and not my whole arm in the rotational motion. Hope this helps, M www.HistoCare.com From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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] Number of blocks
I think a lot of people do those things you mentioned and have a few more techniques of their own too, and not just the ole school people. Certainly anyone who went to histo school does at least some of these things :) Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: cont...@histocare.com Date: Thu, 25 Oct 2012 11:23:07 -0500 To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi, To most folks that number does seem high but I've met many old school techs who can do this easily. One of my first learning experiences was watching a 57 year old woman crank out tons of slides with no errors and who regularly got praises from the pathologists for producing the most beautiful slides. While I have never been required to produce a certain amount within a certain window, I have built up the ability to cut a lot more than 50 per hour. I have even doubled this number. Of course it depends on the tissue type, but assuming properly decalcified bone, nothing popping out of the block, and a cold block of ice, it's very easy for me to produce a high quality slide at 3,4,5 microns. I get compliments all the time of my slides. My methods are quite different from most techs though. When facing, I don't waste movements. I actually count the rotations and spend less than 8 seconds facing each block. I also get the right section usually in about the third or fourth crank and I only put at the most two sections in the water bath to pick up. I don't cut unnecessary ribbons just to have them sit in the water bath and eventually have to wipe away with the Kimwipe, which in my opinion is wasteful of both materials and time. I also make sure I have enough ice to keep the blocks very cold and adequately hydrated. I'm not sure if being in decent physical shape matters but I think it gives me the arm stamina to do this. I use only my wrists and fingers and not my whole arm in the rotational motion. Hope this helps, M www.HistoCare.com From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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] Number of blocks
I do agree with your embedding comment. The skill of the embedding makes a huge impact on both speed and quality, and if they know how to embed for microtomy' or just throw the thing in there- also the processing and block temperature as well as the tissue types and protocols. Can't say I time myself to a certain number of rotations, I go more on judgment and visuals, but I did learn efficiency techniques (along with the water bath concerns) as part of my histology training which have served me well. There are a lot of variables I do agree, but you can still try to optimize. Managers have to have a way to benchmark and measure. If you build into the number allowances for some variables, I think you can still get some insight into productivity of that step, but it is difficult to make hard and fast rules or lines or numbers that apply to all lab situations. I think use of in-house numbers are best, tempered with studies and stats such as Renee's for reference if your management insists on numbers and values ( and most do). Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: j...@cdc.gov To: cont...@histocare.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Thu, 25 Oct 2012 16:28:47 + Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks CC: You mention how many rotations you use for facing your blocks. That assumes whoever did the embedding did a good job. And even with no unnecessary ribbons.whether there are extra sections or not, you still have to keep the water bath scrupulously clean which means wiping out with a Kimwipe after each block...whether there are ribbons floating or not. Jeanine H. Bartlett Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch 404-639-3590 jeanine.bartl...@cdc.hhs.gov -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Contact HistoCare Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:23 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi, To most folks that number does seem high but I've met many old school techs who can do this easily. One of my first learning experiences was watching a 57 year old woman crank out tons of slides with no errors and who regularly got praises from the pathologists for producing the most beautiful slides. While I have never been required to produce a certain amount within a certain window, I have built up the ability to cut a lot more than 50 per hour. I have even doubled this number. Of course it depends on the tissue type, but assuming properly decalcified bone, nothing popping out of the block, and a cold block of ice, it's very easy for me to produce a high quality slide at 3,4,5 microns. I get compliments all the time of my slides. My methods are quite different from most techs though. When facing, I don't waste movements. I actually count the rotations and spend less than 8 seconds facing each block. I also get the right section usually in about the third or fourth crank and I only put at the most two sections in the water bath to pick up. I don't cut unnecessary ribbons just to have them sit in the water bath and eventually have to wipe away with the Kimwipe, which in my opinion is wasteful of both materials and time. I also make sure I have enough ice to keep the blocks very cold and adequately hydrated. I'm not sure if being in decent physical shape matters but I think it gives me the arm stamina to do this. I use only my wrists and fingers and not my whole arm in the rotational motion. Hope this helps, M www.HistoCare.com From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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] Number of blocks
I know some hospitals have a sheet where each tech records the number of blocks they cut in t heir shift but it's broken down by the color of the cassette...for example, one represents bone marrows, the other levels for GI biopsies, one for breast core biopsies which also require levels, etc. That way they can tell who is doing what efficiently. From: joelle weaver [mailto:joellewea...@hotmail.com] Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 1:58 PM To: Bartlett, Jeanine (CDC/OID/NCEZID); cont...@histocare.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks I do agree with your embedding comment. The skill of the embedding makes a huge impact on both speed and quality, and if they know how to embed for microtomy' or just throw the thing in there- also the processing and block temperature as well as the tissue types and protocols. Can't say I time myself to a certain number of rotations, I go more on judgment and visuals, but I did learn efficiency techniques (along with the water bath concerns) as part of my histology training which have served me well. There are a lot of variables I do agree, but you can still try to optimize. Managers have to have a way to benchmark and measure. If you build into the number allowances for some variables, I think you can still get some insight into productivity of that step, but it is difficult to make hard and fast rules or lines or numbers that apply to all lab situations. I think use of in-house numbers are best, tempered with studies and stats such as Renee's for reference if your management insists on numbers and values ( and most do). Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: j...@cdc.govmailto:j...@cdc.gov To: cont...@histocare.commailto:cont...@histocare.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edumailto:histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Thu, 25 Oct 2012 16:28:47 + Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks CC: You mention how many rotations you use for facing your blocks. That assumes whoever did the embedding did a good job. And even with no unnecessary ribbons.whether there are extra sections or not, you still have to keep the water bath scrupulously clean which means wiping out with a Kimwipe after each block...whether there are ribbons floating or not. Jeanine H. Bartlett Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch 404-639-3590 jeanine.bartl...@cdc.hhs.govmailto:jeanine.bartl...@cdc.hhs.gov -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edumailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Contact HistoCare Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:23 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edumailto:histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi, To most folks that number does seem high but I've met many old school techs who can do this easily. One of my first learning experiences was watching a 57 year old woman crank out tons of slides with no errors and who regularly got praises from the pathologists for producing the most beautiful slides. While I have never been required to produce a certain amount within a certain window, I have built up the ability to cut a lot more than 50 per hour. I have even doubled this number. Of course it depends on the tissue type, but assuming properly decalcified bone, nothing popping out of the block, and a cold block of ice, it's very easy for me to produce a high quality slide at 3,4,5 microns. I get compliments all the time of my slides. My methods are quite different from most techs though. When facing, I don't waste movements. I actually count the rotations and spend less than 8 seconds facing each block. I also get the right section usually in about the third or fourth crank and I only put at the most two sections in the water bath to pick up. I don't cut unnecessary ribbons just to have them sit in the water bath and eventually have to wipe away with the Kimwipe, which in my opinion is wasteful of both materials and time. I also make sure I have enough ice to keep the blocks very cold and adequately hydrated. I'm not sure if being in decent physical shape matters but I think it gives me the arm stamina to do this. I use only my wrists and fingers and not my whole arm in the rotational motion. Hope this helps, M www.HistoCare.comhttp://www.HistoCare.com From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.commailto:techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edumailto:Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old
RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks
yep, something like that system seems to work. Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: j...@cdc.gov To: joellewea...@hotmail.com; cont...@histocare.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks Date: Thu, 25 Oct 2012 18:04:52 + I know some hospitals have a sheet where each tech records the number of blocks they cut in t heir shift but it’s broken down by the color of the cassette…for example, one represents bone marrows, the other levels for GI biopsies, one for breast core biopsies which also require levels, etc. That way they can tell who is doing what efficiently. From: joelle weaver [mailto:joellewea...@hotmail.com] Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 1:58 PM To: Bartlett, Jeanine (CDC/OID/NCEZID); cont...@histocare.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks I do agree with your embedding comment. The skill of the embedding makes a huge impact on both speed and quality, and if they know how to embed for microtomy' or just throw the thing in there- also the processing and block temperature as well as the tissue types and protocols. Can't say I time myself to a certain number of rotations, I go more on judgment and visuals, but I did learn efficiency techniques (along with the water bath concerns) as part of my histology training which have served me well. There are a lot of variables I do agree, but you can still try to optimize. Managers have to have a way to benchmark and measure. If you build into the number allowances for some variables, I think you can still get some insight into productivity of that step, but it is difficult to make hard and fast rules or lines or numbers that apply to all lab situations. I think use of in-house numbers are best, tempered with studies and stats such as Renee's for reference if your management insists on numbers and values ( and most do). Joelle Weaver MAOM, HTL (ASCP) QIHC From: j...@cdc.gov To: cont...@histocare.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Thu, 25 Oct 2012 16:28:47 + Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks CC: You mention how many rotations you use for facing your blocks. That assumes whoever did the embedding did a good job. And even with no unnecessary ribbons.whether there are extra sections or not, you still have to keep the water bath scrupulously clean which means wiping out with a Kimwipe after each block...whether there are ribbons floating or not. Jeanine H. Bartlett Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch 404-639-3590 jeanine.bartl...@cdc.hhs.gov -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Contact HistoCare Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 12:23 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi, To most folks that number does seem high but I've met many old school techs who can do this easily. One of my first learning experiences was watching a 57 year old woman crank out tons of slides with no errors and who regularly got praises from the pathologists for producing the most beautiful slides. While I have never been required to produce a certain amount within a certain window, I have built up the ability to cut a lot more than 50 per hour. I have even doubled this number. Of course it depends on the tissue type, but assuming properly decalcified bone, nothing popping out of the block, and a cold block of ice, it's very easy for me to produce a high quality slide at 3,4,5 microns. I get compliments all the time of my slides. My methods are quite different from most techs though. When facing, I don't waste movements. I actually count the rotations and spend less than 8 seconds facing each block. I also get the right section usually in about the third or fourth crank and I only put at the most two sections in the water bath to pick up. I don't cut unnecessary ribbons just to have them sit in the water bath and eventually have to wipe away with the Kimwipe, which in my opinion is wasteful of both materials and time. I also make sure I have enough ice to keep the blocks very cold and adequately hydrated. I'm not sure if being in decent physical shape matters but I think it gives me the arm stamina to do this. I use only my wrists and fingers and not my whole arm in the rotational motion. Hope this helps, M www.HistoCare.com From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out
RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks
40-50 blocks per hour. Maybe for short times, in very simple circumstances, but I can't imagine that for extended periods or with a mix of samples and tasks. In our histolab people have other tasks besides cutting so rarely are doing only cutting. I came up with over 15 different variations on a daily task list that people do in our lab, including embedding as well as cutting, cutting different types of samples during the day, handling rush bx, doing maintenance tasks, etc. Since it is so complicated I ended up rating people on only a few very specific cutting situations and then only for a couple of hours, not a whole day. Tim Morken Department of Pathology UC San Francisco Medical Center -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Contact HistoCare Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 9:23 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi, To most folks that number does seem high but I've met many old school techs who can do this easily. One of my first learning experiences was watching a 57 year old woman crank out tons of slides with no errors and who regularly got praises from the pathologists for producing the most beautiful slides. While I have never been required to produce a certain amount within a certain window, I have built up the ability to cut a lot more than 50 per hour. I have even doubled this number. Of course it depends on the tissue type, but assuming properly decalcified bone, nothing popping out of the block, and a cold block of ice, it's very easy for me to produce a high quality slide at 3,4,5 microns. I get compliments all the time of my slides. My methods are quite different from most techs though. When facing, I don't waste movements. I actually count the rotations and spend less than 8 seconds facing each block. I also get the right section usually in about the third or fourth crank and I only put at the most two sections in the water bath to pick up. I don't cut unnecessary ribbons just to have them sit in the water bath and eventually have to wipe away with the Kimwipe, which in my opinion is wasteful of both materials and time. I also make sure I have enough ice to keep the blocks very cold and adequately hydrated. I'm not sure if being in decent physical shape matters but I think it gives me the arm stamina to do this. I use only my wrists and fingers and not my whole arm in the rotational motion. Hope this helps, M www.HistoCare.com From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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] Number of blocks
Dorothy, Let your supervisor to do 40-50 slides per hour for IHC-tests onto your workpalace. You can see all the secrets for this process from first hand. Also will be interest to know the pathologist's impressions after evaluations his slides. I believe for two things: he can not able to do this and/or pathologist not like the slides. If this supervisor can do such work at least one week with great results, then I want to learn this and many other things from he. Sincerely, Maxim Peshkov Maxim mailto:maxim...@mail.ru ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks
I have read both of Rene's papers (as well as his many others) and highly recommend them as the state of play in Histotechnology labs around the world. Regards Tony Henwood JP, MSc, BAppSc, GradDipSysAnalys, CT(ASC), FFSc(RCPA) Laboratory Manager Senior Scientist Tel: 612 9845 3306 Fax: 612 9845 3318 the children's hospital at westmead Cnr Hawkesbury Road and Hainsworth Street, Westmead Locked Bag 4001, Westmead NSW 2145, AUSTRALIA -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hannen, Valerie Sent: Friday, 26 October 2012 1:33 AM To: 'Rene J Buesa'; Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks Rene, I have been asked in the past about productivity in our department. Can you share those articles with me as well? Thanks!! Valerie Valerie A. Hannen, MLT(ASCP),HTL,SU(FL) Histology Section Chief Parrish Medical Center 951 N. Washington Ave. Titusville, Florida 32976 Phone:(321) 268-6333 ext. 7506 Fax: (321) 268-6149 valerie.han...@parrishmed.com -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:18 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi Dorothy: Your manager is wrong and probably influenced by some productivity consultant trying to appear tough or preparing to justiffy a staff reduction. The average sectioning productivity obtained in 325 histology laboratories (221 in the US and 114 in 24 foreign countries) is 24 blocks per hour. Under separate cover I am sending two articles dealing with this issue and that of staffing that you will be able to show to your manager. René J. From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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 = This email is intended solely for the use of the individual to whom it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this email is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately delete this message. Thank you = ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet * This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete it and notify the sender. Views expressed in this message and any attachments are those of the individual sender, and are not necessarily the views of The Children's Hospital at Westmead This note also confirms that this email message has been virus scanned and although no computer viruses were detected, The Childrens Hospital at Westmead accepts no liability for any consequential damage resulting from email containing computer viruses. * ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks
Rene probably can't since Histonet does not allow attachments (definitely a good thing). Rene might have problem with journal copyright issues as well. Regards Tony Henwood JP, MSc, BAppSc, GradDipSysAnalys, CT(ASC), FFSc(RCPA) Laboratory Manager Senior Scientist Tel: 612 9845 3306 Fax: 612 9845 3318 the children's hospital at westmead Cnr Hawkesbury Road and Hainsworth Street, Westmead Locked Bag 4001, Westmead NSW 2145, AUSTRALIA -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Will Chappell Sent: Friday, 26 October 2012 1:38 AM To: Hannen, Valerie Cc: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks In fact, can you share them with all of histonet? Sent from my iPhone On Oct 25, 2012, at 7:33 AM, Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com wrote: Rene, I have been asked in the past about productivity in our department. Can you share those articles with me as well? Thanks!! Valerie Valerie A. Hannen, MLT(ASCP),HTL,SU(FL) Histology Section Chief Parrish Medical Center 951 N. Washington Ave. Titusville, Florida 32976 Phone:(321) 268-6333 ext. 7506 Fax: (321) 268-6149 valerie.han...@parrishmed.com -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:18 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi Dorothy: Your manager is wrong and probably influenced by some productivity consultant trying to appear tough or preparing to justiffy a staff reduction. The average sectioning productivity obtained in 325 histology laboratories (221 in the US and 114 in 24 foreign countries) is 24 blocks per hour. Under separate cover I am sending two articles dealing with this issue and that of staffing that you will be able to show to your manager. René J. From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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 == This email is intended solely for the use of the individual to whom it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this email is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately delete this message. Thank you == ___ 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 * This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you are not the intended recipient, please delete it and notify the sender. Views expressed in this message and any attachments are those of the individual sender, and are not necessarily the views of The Children's Hospital at Westmead This note also confirms that this email message has been virus scanned and although no computer viruses were detected, The Childrens Hospital at Westmead accepts no liability for any consequential damage resulting from email containing computer viruses. * ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet
RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks
Brilliant!!! Regards Tony Henwood JP, MSc, BAppSc, GradDipSysAnalys, CT(ASC), FFSc(RCPA) Laboratory Manager Senior Scientist Tel: 612 9845 3306 Fax: 612 9845 3318 the children's hospital at westmead Cnr Hawkesbury Road and Hainsworth Street, Westmead Locked Bag 4001, Westmead NSW 2145, AUSTRALIA -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Edwards, Richard E. Sent: Friday, 26 October 2012 2:02 AM To: 'Rene J Buesa'; Will Chappell; Hannen, Valerie Cc: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] Number of blocks If you don't mind me butting here in Rene, most of your papers are available in full on Pubmed. Cheers Richard -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: 25 October 2012 16:00 To: Will Chappell; Hannen, Valerie Cc: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Will: I would like to do that very much but unfortunately Histonet is set in a way that they do not accept atttachments and any e-mail with them will not go through. René J. From: Will Chappell cha...@yahoo.com To: Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com Cc: Rene J Buesa rjbu...@yahoo.com; Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:37 AM Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks In fact, can you share them with all of histonet? Sent from my iPhone On Oct 25, 2012, at 7:33 AM, Hannen, Valerie valerie.han...@parrishmed.com wrote: Rene, I have been asked in the past about productivity in our department. Can you share those articles with me as well? Thanks!! Valerie Valerie A. Hannen, MLT(ASCP),HTL,SU(FL) Histology Section Chief Parrish Medical Center 951 N. Washington Ave. Titusville, Florida 32976 Phone:(321) 268-6333 ext. 7506 Fax: (321) 268-6149 valerie.han...@parrishmed.com -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Thursday, October 25, 2012 10:18 AM To: Dorothy Ragland-Glass; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks Hi Dorothy: Your manager is wrong and probably influenced by some productivity consultant trying to appear tough or preparing to justiffy a staff reduction. The average sectioning productivity obtained in 325 histology laboratories (221 in the US and 114 in 24 foreign countries) is 24 blocks per hour. Under separate cover I am sending two articles dealing with this issue and that of staffing that you will be able to show to your manager. René J. From: Dorothy Ragland-Glass techman...@yahoo.com To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:38 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks It was annouced by a histo lab manager that techs are expected to cut 40-50 blocks per hour. That seems to me to be rather high. I don't see quality slides being turned out. It is quantity and profit above patient care. I am old school, and I remember something about quality and patient first. Besides what kind of impact on morality of the techs, back problems and carpal tunnel syndrom is laying ahead for the cutter after cranking the microtome repeatedly that many blocks without a break. ___ 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 == This email is intended solely for the use of the individual to whom it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable law. If the reader of this email is not the intended recipient or the employee or agent responsible for delivering the message to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately delete this message. Thank you == ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet
Re: [Histonet] Number of blocks before a processor change???
I always counted the number of blocks processed per run. When my VIP reached its maximum (e.g. 300 blocks), I changed all the alcohols of less than 100%, and moved down the 100EthOL, the xylenes and the paraffins (meaning eliminating the first 100 EthOL, xylene and paraffin, and replacing the last). René J. --- On Sat, 7/9/11, Sheila Adey sa...@hotmail.ca wrote: From: Sheila Adey sa...@hotmail.ca Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks before a processor change??? To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Saturday, July 9, 2011, 9:31 AM Hello: We currently change our processors every 5 runs. I am thinking it would be more cost and time effective to count the number of blocks before doing a change. If you count your blocks could you share with me at what number you do a change. We run all types of tissues. We use a gallon of reagent in each position. Vip5. Thanks in advance. :) Sheila ___ 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] Number of blocks before a processor change???
We rotate one of each solution type(including wax) every 50 blocks or every 2 runs(whichever occurs first). Helps counteract carryover from sponges and seems to work better and conserve a little on reagents than when doing complete change less frequently. Note: we rune a large number of small biopsies using sponges. Pat Valente Histo Manager Healthtronics San Antonio From: Sheila Adey sa...@hotmail.ca To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Sent: Sat, July 9, 2011 8:31:52 AM Subject: [Histonet] Number of blocks before a processor change??? Hello: We currently change our processors every 5 runs. I am thinking it would be more cost and time effective to count the number of blocks before doing a change. If you count your blocks could you share with me at what number you do a change. We run all types of tissues. We use a gallon of reagent in each position. Vip5. Thanks in advance. :) Sheila ___ 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
