Competency information
Details
Receive, label and store of a wide range of histopathology specimens.
Considerations
- Minimum data set required for identification of samples and the importance of ensuring that this is complete and correct.
- Factors affecting sample integrity and appropriate corrective action.
- Procedures for handling samples which may contain category 2, 3 and 4 pathogens.
- Types and implications of hazards and risks associated with handling of specimens and relevant control measures.
- The quality management process that ensures the correct location and storage of documentation and specimens at each stage of the process.
- Legal and ethical considerations and requirements in respect of examination of tissue, selection of control material and disposal of specimens.
- Infection risk from blood samples and how to deal with fresh tissue samples.
- Safe laboratory practices, including principles of decontamination of equipment and work areas.
- Specimen acquisition, viability, collection and delivery, including renal biopsies and bullous skin diseases.
- Quality assurance procedures and their application.
- Local and national health and safety policies and procedures and their application.
- The range of imaging procedures available and their use, including storage of images.
- Correct and safe use of imaging equipment and processing of X- rays or photographic films if required.
- The dissection of FRCPath category A, B and C specimens.
- Principles and practice of fixation.
Relevant learning outcomes
| # | Outcome |
|---|---|
| # 1 | Outcome Receive, prepare and process specimens for histopathological investigation. To include dissection, tissue selection cutting, fixation and staining, as appropriate. |
| # 5 | Outcome Comply with quality assurance processes associated with histopathological investigations. |