Higher Associate Practitioner HPV/Cytology Band 4

Job description

Job responsibilities

With respect to both the cervical screening and the non-gynae cytology sections of Cytology, the post-holder will,

1. Participate in the receipt, recording and storage of cervical cytology (Liquid Based Cytology) screening specimens and Diagnostic (non-gynae) specimens, ensuring that they meet quality standards of identification and preservation as defined in Standard Operating Procedures. Identify and prioritise specimens appropriately.

2. Participate in the HPV testing of LBC samples using molecular techniques using semi-automated and fully automated processes.

3. Prepare samples ready for testing. Complete all necessary documentation.

4. Prepare Aptima HPV assays for use, perform maintenance on TomCats and

Panthers and update paperwork

5. Run calibrators and QC samples and escalate any issues to a senior member of staff.

6. Perform trouble-shooting on TomCats and Panthers making service calls if necessary.

7. Run environmental monitoring and NEQAS EQA samples as scheduled and record results.

8. Participate in the partial preparation of diagnostic samples under the supervision of

BMS staff.

9. Participate in the processing of LBC samples and the preparation of slides for microscopic examination ie loading cell processor, staining, cover-slipping, collation of work

10. Participate in the preparation, cleaning, decontamination, calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment and working areas.

11. Facilitate the disposal of samples according to protocol.

12. Participate in the preparation of reagents for routine laboratory use

13. Input data to departmental and other IT systems and from paper records. Code and verify data. Retrieve information from other systems. Undertake this work to ensure the accuracy of the permanently stored patient records

14. Provide assistance to departmental Failsafe Officer.

15. Deal with telephone enquiries to the department

16. When relevant, contact individuals and agencies within and external to NBT to seek information necessary for service provision

17. Ensure the maintenance of adequate stocks of reagents, chemicals and consumables. Participate in acceptance testing, initiate the ordering of stocks as required

18. Notify senior staff of all problems encountered in the performance of duties, particularly the reporting of accidents and potential hazards

19. Work according to the Standard Operating Procedures and established Health and

Safety guidelines documented

20. To plan own daily workload and carry out the tasks and instructions of senior staff in a manner conducive to the provision and development of an efficient Cellular Pathology service.

21. Suggest and comment on changes to SOPs, undertake the integration of new SOPs into the department and to identify and suggest changes to current working practices in order to ensure a high quality service.

22. Participate in Continuing Professional Development including a structure training programme to acquire core competencies and the participation in regular competency assessment

23. Participate in the training of staff as appropriate

24. Perform general laboratory duties, e.g. checking instruments.

25. Participate in staff appraisal / PDP according to Trust policies and procedures

Person Specification

Qualification

Essential

• Diploma/Higher National Certificate or Foundation Degree in relevant science subject, or equivalent.

Experience

Essential

• Working knowledge of lab procedures/ SOPs
• Technically competent in receipt, preparation and processing of samples
• Working Knowledge of operating sample analysers
• Knowledge of MS office including Outlook, Word and Excel
• Experience of working in a team

Desirable

• Working knowledge of the computer system used and key board skills
• Knowledge of basic medical terminology

Knowledge

Essential

• Good interpersonal skills
• Good communication skills both verbal and written
• Good organisational skills
• Ability to concentrate for long periods
• Possess manual dexterity and ability to work accurately
• Knowledge of health and safety within the workplace

Desirable

• Understand the use of environmental monitoring

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Certificate of Sponsorship

Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

Employer details

Employer name

North Bristol NHS Trust

Address

Southmead Hospital

Westbury on Trym

Bristol

BS10 5NB

Employer's website

https://www.nbt.nhs.uk (Opens in a new tab)