RE: [Histonet] How many tissues an histotech is suppose to cut perhour?
My hospital, like most, use benchmarking when examining how many people are needed to adequately provide services in any given area. Benchmarking data is widely available for most clinical lab scenarios but can be a bit lacking when it comes to pathology laboratories. I agree that the number of blocks per hour a histotech can cut must be examined in relation to the quality of those blocks. If I am anticipating an increase in workload and want to justify hiring more techs, it is invaluable to be able to cite national statistics, how my lab compares with them currently, and what I would need if my anticipated block count is anticipated to go up by a few thousand. Given that the information will be used to justify existing or future positions, would it be a fair statement that nationally, most histotechs average 24 blocks per hour (based on Jan's formula)? Thanks, Steve Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mahoney,Janice A Sent: Tuesday, March 01, 2011 10:02 AM To: 'Marcum, Pamela A'; Podawiltz, Thomas; 'Konop, Nicole'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; 'Jenny Vega' Subject: RE: [Histonet] How many tissues an histotech is suppose to cut perhour? Well said Pam. All the speed in the world means nothing if you can't produce quality slides. The suggestion to do things the same way every time is a good one. However, learning what works well on what tissue is very helpful too. Like icing something that wrinkles or soaking something that shatters, etc. It all comes from experience. I plan to retire in 2 months but will keep my foot in the door working casual so that I don't lose my skills. I love this profession! Jan Omaha -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Marcum, Pamela A Sent: Tuesday, March 01, 2011 8:58 AM To: Podawiltz, Thomas; 'Konop, Nicole'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; 'Jenny Vega' Subject: RE: [Histonet] How many tissues an histotech is suppose to cut per hour? I agree with Tom. Janice is correct on her timing numbers. However; when you are starting out it is best to get the flow for working at your station than beating a clock. You will gain your speed with learning accuracy which is more important for the patient at the end. We are in patient care not NASCAR and should always remember patient first, which translates to accuracy and the best sections we can produce on every slide. Speed will come as you do more blocks and get better. Pam Marcum From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Podawiltz, Thomas [tpodawi...@lrgh.org] Sent: Tuesday, March 01, 2011 8:26 AM To: 'Konop, Nicole'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; 'Jenny Vega' Subject: RE: [Histonet] How many tissues an histotech is suppose to cut per hour? Worry more about quality than speed at this time. I measure my staff on quality rather than how fast things get done. It's a waste of time, energy and resources to have to re-cut blocks because of poor quality. Speed comes with time and experience. Tom Podawiltz HT (ASCP) Histology Section Head/Laboratory Safety Officer LRGHealthcare -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Konop, Nicole Sent: Tuesday, March 01, 2011 9:14 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; 'Jenny Vega' Subject: RE: [Histonet] How many tissues an histotech is suppose to cut per hour? I agree with Cynthia. Practice and setting up a standard system of how you cut. I do the same thing every time with each block I cut. Cutting faster is not necessarily a good thing if you are jeopardizing quality just to cut more slides. It's quality over quantity in my book any day! Nicole Anne Konop BS, HTL(ASCP) Histology Team Lead Children's Hospital of Wisconsin (414)266-6580 Direct Line (414)907-0366 Pager (414)266-2524 Histology Department -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Cynthia Pyse Sent: Tuesday, March 01, 2011 7:51 AM To: 'Jenny Vega'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] How many tissues an histotech is suppose to cut per hour? Practice, practice, practice! -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Jenny Vega Sent: Monday, February 28, 2011 5:19 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] How many tissues an histotech is suppose to cut per hour? I would like to know how many tissues does a
RE: [Histonet] Competancies for handling hazardous material
This is an early draft copy of what we are working on. Feel free to use it as a template and add any unique duties or items you need to. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Fortin, Joyce Sent: Wednesday, March 02, 2011 1:21 PM To: Liz Chlipala; Rae Staskiewicz; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Competancies for handling hazardous material Could I PLEASE have this information, too? I would really appreciate it. Joyce Fortin Histology Supervisor Palmdale Regional Medical Center 38600 Medical Center Drive Palmdale, California 93551 Phone 661-382-5723 Fax 661-382-5747 email: joyce.for...@uhsinc.com From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Liz Chlipala [l...@premierlab.com] Sent: Wednesday, February 23, 2011 6:51 PM To: Rae Staskiewicz; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] Competancies for handling hazardous material Rae We have, you need standard training, but the individuals who inspected our lab did not mention compentances. But our inspection happened because we needed to switch from a conditionally exempt small quantity generator to a small quantitiy generator and we then needed to register with the state, etc. They primarily focused on our waste streams and what chemicals were in the lab. I'm not at work right now, but I'll check tomorrow to see if I have anything that I can share with you. Liz From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu on behalf of Rae Staskiewicz Sent: Wed 2/23/2011 6:19 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Competancies for handling hazardous material Has anyone been inspected by the EPA regarding removal of hazardous chemicals? It came up in a safety meeting that I should have training and competencies (beyond general safety training and PPE) for pouring xylene from staining dishes and processors into accumulation containers. Rae Ann Staskiewicz ___ 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 UHS Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail message, including any attachments, is for the sole use of the intended recipient (s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution of this information is prohibited. If this was sent to you in error, please notify the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all copies of the original message. ___ 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] Alcohol Xylene recyclers
We use Creative Waste Solutions recyclers. We have alcohol and formalin recyclers and utilize xylene absorption pads to get he water out of the xylene and reuse it. We choose these recyclers because they are a gravity feed system that does not require a power source, they are quiet so we can locate them adjacent the materials we want to recycle, thus adding to the LEAN aspect of these units. We found that these were very cost effective as well when considered alongside the other recyclers that are available. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Akemi Allison Sent: Wednesday, March 02, 2011 1:42 PM To: histonet Subject: [Histonet] Alcohol Xylene recyclers Hi Everyone in histoland! I would like to get your feedback on which alcohol / xylene recyling units you prefer. I would like information regarding purity of end product, cost, size of footprint, and relyability. We currently do not have a recycling unit, and I have been requested to gather information. Thank you, Akemi Allison BS, HT(ASCP)HTL E-Mail: akemiat3...@yahoo.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] cassette slide/labeling
We use Leica's IPC and IPS system and are very pleased with it. These labelers can be interfaced with any LIS system so that to the system they appear as just another printer. We also use the IPS to print our cytology slides that we use with the ThinPrep Imager. We are also looking into a new product that Leica will be fielding soon called Leica Cerebro specimen tracking system. This system is sort of a middle ware that will interface with the LIS to enable bar code scanning instead of manual entry for virtually every step in the process. That includes everything from accessions to final check out. If we end up with this system, I will let you know how we like it. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Carol Bryant Sent: Wednesday, February 09, 2011 9:45 AM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] cassette slide/labeling We are looking to get a bar-coded system in our laboratory. We currently hand write all cassettes and slides. What labelers do you have and do you like them? Also does anyone have the Ventana Vantage system? If so, would you recommend Vantage? Carol Bryant, CT (ASCP) Cytology/Histology Manager Pathology Services Lexington Clinic Phone (859) 258-4082 Fax (859) 258-4081 cb...@lexclin.com NOTICE OF CONFIDENTIALITY This message, including any attachments, is intended only for the sole use of the addressee and may contain confidential or privileged information that is protected by the State of Kentucky and/or Federal regulations. If you are not the intended recipient, do not read, copy, retain or disseminate this message or any attachment. If you have received this message in error, please call the sender immediately at (859)258-4000 and delete all copies of this message and any attachment. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, copying or distribution is strictly prohibited. Neither the transmission of this message or any attachment, nor any error in transmission or misdelivery shall constitute waiver of any applicable legal privilege. ___ 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] Artisan
We have had no issues with this. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Nita Searcy Sent: Thursday, February 10, 2011 3:10 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Cc: Patricia Webster Subject: [Histonet] Artisan Has anyone had background issues with the Gram stain on the Dako Artisan Link? If so - how was it resolved? Thanks Nita Nita Searcy, HT/HTL (ASCP) Scott and White Hospital Division Manager, Anatomic Pathology 2401 S. 31st. Street 254-724-2438 Temple, Texas, 76502 nsea...@swmail.sw.org 254-724-2438 ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] cell block fixation
Try a 50/50 mix of formalin and 95% alcohol. Have your prep techs add about 5 mL of this mixture and a drop of albumin (we use the bovine albumin from the blood bank but any albumin will do) to the cell block contents. Mix well and centrifuge. The button should be well formed. Take care not to add too much albumin or the tissue will be brittle and difficult to cut. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hutton, Allison Sent: Wednesday, February 09, 2011 2:00 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] cell block fixation We recently switched vendors for our formalin and while we have not experienced any difference with our surgical specimens, our cell blocks from body fluids have been giving us a great deal of trouble. The button that we get never seems to harden, leaving it sort of gelatinous, even if left to sit in formalin for days. We are able to get sections off of these cell blocks, however, the slides are blank by the end of the staining process. This is only a recent development that seems to coincide with the time we switched formalin vendors and it only happens with body fluid specimens (FNA specimens don't seem to give us as much trouble). The composition of the formalin is almost identical between vendors. Can anyone help me explain why this might be happening? Thank you in advance, Allison ___ 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] slide labeler advice
Hi Liz, We use Leica's IPC and IPS equipment and have found a simple solution to using them with our LIS. If you connect a computer (CPU) only, to each IPC or IPS you want to interface, you can use these units like any other printer that your LIS lists. We routinely print slides and cassettes automatically when a case is accessioned or on demand from any of our workstations. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Liz Chlipala Sent: Wednesday, February 02, 2011 5:56 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] slide labeler advice Hello again We are in the market for a slide labeler. We currently have the SlideMate from Thermo Scientific. We have had it for about 2 years now and we are just not happy with the quality and consistency of the printing. We are a contract research lab and not a clinical lab. Entering data for each slide is not an option. The programming that comes with the Slide Mate is nice, except that no one has really spent the time to train us on it, we have figured it out a bit. We would want a labeler that we could create formats for different sample types, so all we would have to do is put the animal ID in and the printer would print all of the slides needed. Would like barcoding capabilities just incase we move to that in the future. Any advice or suggestions are appreciated. Vendors welcome also. Thanks in advance. Liz Elizabeth A. Chlipala, BS, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Manager Premier Laboratory, LLC PO Box 18592 Boulder, Colorado 80308 office (303) 682-3949 fax (303) 682-9060 www.premierlab.com Ship to Address: 1567 Skyway Drive, Unit E Longmont, Colorado 80504 ___ 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] LEAN Processes/ new lab
Hi Nancy, We built a brand new pathology lab from the bottom up last year. Drop me an email off line or give me a call and we can discuss our lessons learned etc. I worked with a LEAN workflow specialist on the design and equipment placement prior to the plans being approved. We included the architect in all of out discussions about this. You can always come to snowy New Hampshire and check it out yourself? Steve Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Nancy Schmitt Sent: Friday, January 28, 2011 9:47 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] LEAN Processes/ new lab Hi Histonetters- I am looking for input, pros and cons or anything else you can offer. We are designing a new histology lab to move to and I am interested in how others have handled this along with using LEAN processes. What would you do differently? What would you do the same? Are you in the tri-state (IA, WI, MN) area and open to visitors? Thank you in advance for your thoughts- Nancy Schmitt MLT, HT (ASCP) Histology Coordinator United Clinical Laboratories Dubuque, IA NOTICE: This email may contain legally privileged information. The information is for the use of only the intended recipient(s) even if addressed incorrectly. If you are not the intended recipient, please notify the sender that you have received it in error and then delete it along with any attachments. 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] Lab Assistants Embedding
I attended a seminar recently that was given by an Pathologist who was an experienced expert witness. The substance of the seminar addressed the top items that would be looked at when a pathology lab is involved in a lawsuit. One item that was specifically mentioned was that tissue orientation within the block is often examined as a potential reason for false negative surgical cases. The statistics mentioned were all for derm specimens and how when the block was sectioned through, it was reasoned that tissue orientation within the block was at fault. So, the sound advice given by all of you to document and train properly is vital. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Angela Bitting Sent: Friday, January 21, 2011 9:01 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; histonet-reque...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Lab Assistants Embedding Hello Ever-helpful Histofriends, I want to train my lab assistants to embed simple tissues like breast resection specimens, placentas, etc. My manager feels that this will break some kind of regulations and won't sit well with our doctoral staff. I feel pretty confident that other Labs are doing this and I'm ready to take up the torch, but I need some data from other hospitals. Are any of you utilizing your non-HT staff to do these tasks and what hoops did you have to jump through to get approval from the Doctoral staff? In addition, how does CAP look at this? Thanks for your help, as always, Angie Angela Bitting, HT(ASCP), QIHC Technical Specialist, Histology Geisinger Medical Center 100 N Academy Ave. MC 23-00 Danville, PA 17822 phone 570-214-9634 fax 570-271-5916 No trees were hurt in the sending of this email However many electrons were severly inconvienienced! IMPORTANT WARNING: The information in this message (and the documents attached to it, if any) is confidential and may be legally privileged. It is intended solely for the addressee. Access to this message by anyone else is unauthorized. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken, or omitted to be taken, in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this message in error, please delete all electronic copies of this message (and the documents attached to it, if any), destroy any hard copies you may have created and notify me immediately by replying to this email. Thank you. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] Training Plan for Microtomy
I was wondering if any of you may have a microtomy training plan in your files that you would be willing to share? We are looking to expand some of the duties of some of our techs and would like to start things in motion by putting in place a good training plan prior to anyone getting near anything sharp. Thanks, Steve Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org mailto:sfe...@cmc-nh.org ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] if you could pick your own floor surface...
Hi Rebecca, We built a Pathology lab from scratch last year and this was a question that we explored when deciding on flooring materials. We ended up choosing poured epoxy (with rubberized compounds embedded) over concrete. The floor is seamless, wax and slip and stain resistant, and very easy to keep clean. We do a minimum of scrapping a the end of each day. At the end of a year, the floor has stood up extremely well and looks great. It costs a little more up front but you end up saving in the costs of keeping it clean and wax free and in replacement costs. It is estimated that we will not have to look at replacing it for at least 10 years. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Orr, Rebecca Sent: Thursday, December 23, 2010 9:21 AM To: 'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu' Subject: [Histonet] if you could pick your own floor surface... Hi Friends, What type of floor surface would you pick if you could design your own histology lab? I was walking through Costco the other night and noticed theirs is just concrete. Compensating for leg fatigue on the Assistants who have to stand, I'm thinking this type of surface might be easiest to keep clean. What do you think about just concrete? Would there need to be a paraffin scrape nightly? Would that be enough? If paraffin is tracked in the morning will this type of floor be slippy (Pittsburgh slang) by 3pm? What flooring do you have and what drawbacks and advantages do you see with it? Many thanks and no skids! Becky Becky Orr CLA,HT(ASCP)QIHC Technical Specialist Anatomic Pathology NorthShore University HealthSystem 847-570-2771 * Legal Disclaimer: Information contained in this e-mail, including any files transmitted with it, may contain confidential medical or business information intended only for use by the intended recipient(s). Any unauthorized disclosure, use, copying, distribution or taking of any action based on the contents of this email is strictly prohibited. Review by any individual other than the intended recipient does not waive or surrender the physician-patient privilege or any other legal rights. If you received this e-mail in error, please delete it immediately and notify the sender by return email. ___ 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] Re: if you could pick your own floor surface...
We contracted with a flooring company and described what we wanted to do. I will find out exactly what they used. It is similar to the poured epoxy that one would use on a garage floor but with the addition of an additional material that actually has some give to it when walked upon. I will post the exact materials as soon as I get them. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Robert Richmond Sent: Thursday, December 23, 2010 1:51 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Re: if you could pick your own floor surface... Steve Feher responds We built a pathology lab from scratch last year and this was a question that we explored when deciding on flooring materials. We ended up choosing poured epoxy (with rubberized compounds embedded) over concrete. The floor is seamless, wax and slip and stain resistant, and very easy to keep clean. We do a minimum of scraping a the end of each day. At the end of a year, the floor has stood up extremely well and looks great. It costs a little more up front but you end up saving in the costs of keeping it clean and wax free and in replacement costs. It is estimated that we will not have to look at replacing it for at least 10 years. Steve, could you give us some information about where you actually get that poured epoxy material? While talking about pathology floors - do remember indoor-outdoor carpet for the pathologist's office. It helps so much to keep slides from breaking when I drop them! Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist Knoxville TN ___ 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] Grossing Hood Velocity Requirements
We purchased Thermo's Gross Lab Senior grossing stations. A rule of thumb is for these to pull at 450-500 CFM. If you purchase the hoods that include the fan motor, these are factory set to this. We hooked ours in to the hospital ventilation system so it was a bit trickier to achieve this velocity. We currently are pulling at 550 CFM per hood. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of thisis...@aol.com Sent: Friday, December 17, 2010 11:34 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Grossing Hood Velocity Requirements I am looking to purchase a grossing hood and am in need of the requirements for fpm's (feet per minute). Can anyone tell me where to find them? Thank you, Ann ___ 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] Hemoglobin A
We just got some from BioGenex order number is AR021-5R. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Joe Nocito Sent: Thursday, December 02, 2010 5:52 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] Hemoglobin A Howdy histoland, does anyone know where to get Hemoglobin A? Dako doesn't have it any more and we've tried Biocare, Cell Marque, ThermoFisherLabVisions etc, etc, etc, Biogenex. No luck. Thanks Joe ___ 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] Workload Recording
If you are set up for your techs to bar code scan their blocks before they cut, you can keep track of it that way. We have this set up in our LIS. Our techs scan at every station (embedding, cutting, staining, etc) so I can track specimens in addition to keeping statistics. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Scott, Allison D Sent: Friday, December 03, 2010 5:10 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Workload Recording Hello to all in histoland. Does anyone keep a log of how many blocks that their techs cut. My boss asked me do I keep this type of information. Anyone doing workload recording? Allison Scott HT(ASCP) Histology Supervisor LBJ Hospital CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: If you have received this e-mail in error, please immediately notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this e-mail and any attachments from your computer system. To the extent the information in this e-mail and any attachments contain protected health information as defined by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), PL 104-191; 45 CFR Parts 160 and 164; or Chapter 181, Texas Health and Safety Code, it is confidential and/or privileged. This e-mail may also be confidential and/or privileged under Texas law. The e-mail is for the use of only the individual or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, or any authorized representative of the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any review, dissemination or copying of this e-mail and its attachments is strictly prohibited. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] Special Stain Automation
Barbara, We are using the Dako Artisan Link for our special stains and love it. We are getting set to interface the Link to our LIS (SoftPath). This will give us the capability to use the barcodes printed on our slides to bring up the pathologist order directly on the Artisan. We also do a fair number of GMS stains on Non-gyn Thin Prep slides for respiratory specimens looking for Pneumocystis. I would recommend getting a demo from the Dako rep. Steve Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Barbara Richmond Sent: Wednesday, December 01, 2010 10:56 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Special Stain Automation We are in the market for a new stainer to do special stains. We currently are using the Nexus and have been unhappy with it, particularly with the silver stains for which we do a lot of. I'm wondering what techs out there recommend for us to check into. - Avera is a health ministry rooted in the Gospel. Our mission is to make a positive impact in the lives and health of persons and communities by providing quality services guided by Christian values. Avera is sponsored by the Benedictine and Presentation Sisters. ___ 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] ThinPrep vs. SurePath
Hi Jennifer, I have used both systems, as a cytotech, processing tech, and as a supervisor. As a cytotech, there is less area of the slide to have to review so from that viewpoint it seems more efficient. The drawback for me was the size of the cells. For Gyn specimens, very small high grade cells can be difficult to detect without some sort of computer assisted system. The Focal Point system was supposed to provide this assistance but I found it somewhat unreliable. This was further complicated by the Focal Point being about 50% accurate in detecting endocervical cells. Labs that allowed specimens that automatically signed out cases the Focal Point deemed at the lowest risk for abnormal cells frequently had clinicians repeating paps due to there being no endocervical material detected. I found that non-gyn specimens processed using SurePath were very difficult for inexperienced techs and many pathologists simply did not trust that they were getting the appropriate sampling of cells. Very experienced cytotechs and some pathologists preferred SurePath for non-gyns but they are in the minority and I found them difficult and time consuming to review. As a processing tech, SurePath was very time consuming and if a lab has any kind of volume at all, had to have at least 2 technicians dedicated to nothing but processing them. ThinPrep has a larger are to look at and those techs who are used to SurePath do not like to review them because the cells are quite a bit larger, and if doing manual screening, takes a bit longer to review. Use of the ThinPrep Imager has cut screening time down considerably. Time and statistical analysis has shown that the Imager is a very reliable instrument for indicating those areas of the slide where abnormal cells may be found. Criticism has been that the Imager sometimes misses cells with HPV and viral effect. Even so, the primary focus of many labs is to properly detect and report high grade lesions and for this the Imager is reliable. For me, non-gyn specimens were easier to review and displayed a good distribution of cells. A good many pathologists agree and are confident that the cell sampling adequate. As a processing tech, ThinPrep processing takes less time and less personnel than SurePath. If the T-5000 processor is ever released by the FDA for use in the US for gyn specimens, this time will be further reduced. In the end, the smaller cell distribution size offered by SurePath, while seemingly more efficient, requires more time to review for many techs due to the small size of the cells. ThinPrep currently offers a better solution to a majority of labs in terms of accuracy, time to prepare, and Imaging. Hope this was helpful. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Jennifer MacDonald Sent: Wednesday, November 10, 2010 6:20 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] ThinPrep vs. SurePath Does anyone have an opinion as to why there seems to be many more ThinPreps out there than Sure Path? The SurePath seems more efficient, but I might be missing something. Thank you, Jennifer MacDonald ___ 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] Tap Water or filtration system
We use tap water in our Leica multistainer for HE's and a few other stains. The protocols can be optimized to accommodate what ever you are using. I can't speak to the PAS stain except to say that even if you need deionized water, you can buy it in 5 gallon cubes for limited use and still save money. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Vanessa Avalos Sent: Monday, November 15, 2010 12:51 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Tap Water or filtration system We are in the process of getting our new Lecia Autostainer delivered to us. The question came up if we will still need to continue using our water purification system for the stainer. Mostly the docs would like to save money but I don't want them to be unhappy with the result. I would like to hear all the pros and cons of discontinuing/continuing the use of our system and going w/ tap water from the sink. What is the PH level supposed to test at? What difference will I see in the slides? By the way, I only stain HE at the current time but there is a possibility of starting PAS or other special stains. Thank you in advance!!! V.Avalos ADS, INC Fax:602-277-2134 ___ 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] Qualifications to run a Thin Prep 2000?
The distinction between the physical actions required to process a specimen using the T-2000 need to be viewed in conjunction with the overall task involved in processing gyn and non-gyn cytology. While there are no specific qualifications dictated by CAP for this task, we include it as just one part of the overall expected competencies expected for techs processing cytology specimens. ASCT has a good basic instructional program that can be purchased on their website (http://www.asct.com/) that will set some training guidelines and give you a basis for establishing the competencies you want you prep techs to maintain. There is so much more involved than just placing a filter and pouring a vial when it comes to non-gyn cytology. We have established a position that we call Pathology Technician for our techs that process cytology, help with autopsy, and in assist our histotechs. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Fimbres, Amber Sent: Thursday, November 04, 2010 5:22 PM To: Jay Lundgren Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Weems, Joyce Subject: RE: [Histonet] Qualifications to run a Thin Prep 2000? I also wanted to add Jay that our lab assistants are not certified as either HT or HTL. The entry level education requirement of a lab assistant is a high school diploma (or equivalent). Of course what you want in a lab assistant is totally different (such as previous experience, knowledge of medical terminology, etc.). Thanks, Amber From: Jay Lundgren [mailto:jaylundg...@gmail.com] Sent: Thursday, November 04, 2010 1:33 PM To: Fimbres, Amber Cc: Weems, Joyce; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Qualifications to run a Thin Prep 2000? I have sent an email to cytyc, and am awaiting a response, but I was hoping someone on Histonet knew the answer to my query. Thanks, Jay This message contains confidential information and is intended only for the individual named. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail. Please notify the sender immediately by e-mail if you have received this e-mail by mistake and delete this e-mail from your system. E-mail transmission cannot be guaranteed to be secure or error-free as information could be intercepted, corrupted, lost, destroyed, arrive late or incomplete, or contain viruses. The sender therefore does not accept liability for any errors or omissions in the contents of this message, which arise as a result of e-mail transmission. This message contains confidential information and is intended only for the individual named. If you are not the named addressee you should not disseminate, distribute or copy this e-mail. Please notify the sender immediately by e-mail if you have received this e-mail by mistake and delete this e-mail from your system. E-mail transmission cannot be guaranteed to be secure or error-free as information could be intercepted, corrupted, lost, destroyed, arrive late or incomplete, or contain viruses. The sender therefore does not accept liability for any errors or omissions in the contents of this message, which arise as a result of e-mail transmission. ___ 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] Re: Histonet Digest, Vol 83, Issue 46
the links for a receipe. www.pathology.ufl.edu/~molecular/PLP%20Fixative.doc http://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/atniehs/labs/lep/path-support/immuno /reagents.cfm www.hopkinsmedicine.org/.../multimedia/text_documents/Recipes_For_Maki ng_PLP_Fixative.doc William DeSalvo, B.S., HTL(ASCP) From: ttrus...@vetmed.wsu.edu To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Fri, 29 Oct 2010 10:55:45 -0700 Subject: [Histonet] PLP fixative I am seeking basic information on PLP fixative. What is it? Can I make it or buy it? How long does fixation take for lymph node? Thanks in advance, Tom Truscott ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet -- Message: 6 Date: Fri, 29 Oct 2010 20:05:13 + From: Jennifer Hill jh...@vet.k-state.edu Subject: [Histonet] IHC Staining Problem To: histonet histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: 8aa2173dc209ca438077a832ff98bd7f02806...@vetmxht.ads.vet.k-state.edu Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 I hope someone can help me with a problem I've been having with my CD79a hand stain. This is a stain that was validated and working perfectly, when a few months ago I started having reduced, to no staining on my controls, with the occasional run staining a little stronger. I followed the discussion not too long ago with the person who was having similar problems, but the suggestions didn't seem to apply (I use Tween 20 in my PBS rinses, and we use APEX slides from Surgipath-not Fischer Plus). I've tried everything I can think of and I hope someone may have some other ideas. For reference this is for a veterinary diagnostic lab, not a human lab, and this is the only stain we've been having this issue with. My protocol is as follows: After deparfinization/rehydration, AR for 20 min in the steamer in Biogenex Citra Solution (I've gotten new Citra Solution, tried a pressure cooker) 5 min peroxide quench, followed by a 10 min protein block using Dako's Protein Block-Serum Free 60 min Primary incubation (Dako CD79a) at 37 C (decreased dilution from 1:100 to 1:65, new bottle of antibody) 30 min incubation at room temp of ImmPRESS anti-Mouse Reagent from Vector Develop stain with DAB chromogen from Vector Washes of PBS/Tween 20 follow between steps Thank you, Jennifer Hill Research Assistant Kansas State University Veterinary Diagnostic Lab -- Message: 7 Date: Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:34:50 -0500 From: laura.mil...@leica-microsystems.com Subject: [Histonet] Laura Miller is Out of the Office. To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: ofddc515a4.934c900d-on862577cb.007c0a48-862577cb.007c0...@leica-micro systems.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII I will be out of the office starting 10/29/2010 and will not return until 11/01/2010. I am out of the office for the rest of the day. I will be back on Monday! __ This email has been scanned by the MessageLabs Email Security System. For more information please visit http://www.messagelabs.com/email __ -- Message: 8 Date: Fri, 29 Oct 2010 16:38:02 -0600 From: Patsy Ruegg pru...@ihctech.net Subject: RE: [Histonet] RE: breast fixation times To: 'Kuhnla, Melissa' melissa.kuh...@chsli.org,'Feher, Stephen' sfe...@cmc-nh.org,'Tench, Bill' bill.te...@pph.org, 'Weems, Joyce' jwe...@sjha.org,histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Message-ID: 0ad2f85778424e90b81b4ca2d469c...@prueggihctechlt Content-Type: text/plain;charset=us-ascii Melissa, Just because the clone you are using is not recommended in the guidelines does not mean that you cannot use it. You have to validate it the same as using a clone they do recommend, but the bottom line is you can use what ever you want in what ever way you want as long as you validate the protocol on samples generated in your lab. If you want to use a fixation or processing different from what is recommended you have to compare it to formalin fixation and standard (whatever that is) paraffin processing, you would have to do a side by side comparison on the same tissue. As long as you follow the fixation and processing guidelines you can use the ab u want to use without comparing it to abs they recommend, as far as I can tell. You must validate that ab on at least 25 samples generated in your institution just as you would have to validate an antibody they do recommend. Regards, Patsy Patsy Ruegg, HT(ASCP)QIHC IHCtech 12635 Montview Blvd. Ste.215 Aurora, CO 80045 720-859-4060 fax 720-859-4110 www.ihctech.net www.ihcrg.org -Original Message- From: histonet-boun
RE: [Histonet] RE: breast fixation times
Great discussion, comprehensive yet concise. Thanks Bill and Joyce and Melissa. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Tench, Bill Sent: Wednesday, October 27, 2010 12:26 PM To: Weems, Joyce; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] RE: breast fixation times My apologies for not including the updates accurate for ER and PR. Bill Tench Associate Dir. Laboratory Services Chief, Cytology Services Palomar Medical Center 555 E. Valley Parkway Escondido, California 92025 bill.te...@pph.org Voice: 760- 739-3037 Fax: 760-739-2604 -Original Message- From: Weems, Joyce [mailto:jwe...@sjha.org] Sent: Wednesday, October 27, 2010 9:22 AM To: Tench, Bill; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: breast fixation times Thanks for this good explanation, Bill. One can not follow the guidelines and document the variant in the report, but not following them could hurt the patient if there is a clinical trial they might participate in. Clinical trials follow the protocol to the letter and if the FDA requirement is not met, the patient can not participate. The times were extended for ER and PR to 72 hours, but NOT yet for Her2. So...because the tissue is all the same, we must follow the 48 hour limit. We just had a case this weekend. Had the clinical staff remove it from the processor on Sun morning and embedded it Monday. We don't ususally have this problem as we are a 6-day lab, but it was finished too late on Fri. Cheers,j Joyce Weems Pathology Manager Saint Joseph's Hospital 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30342 678-843-7376 - Phone 678-843-7831 - Fax -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Tench, Bill Sent: Wednesday, October 27, 2010 11:50 To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] breast fixation times There is no exception for core biopsies, as reasonable as that may seem. I have had that discussion with the purveyors of the guidelines. 6-48 is the current standard. there was a lot of discussion about exceeding 48 and using the FISH option. My colleague responsible for this wrote: It is in the CAP checklist, ANP 22998: If the laboratory assesses Her2 by IHC or Her2 gene amplification by in-situ hybridization (FISH, CISH, SISH), does the lab have a documented procedure for ensuring appropriate length of fixation of specimens tested? Specimens subject to Her2 testing should be fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin for at least 6 hours and no longer than 48 hours. While fixation outside of these time limits is not an absolute exclusion criterion for Her2 testing, labs should qualify any negative results for specimens fixed less than 6 hours or longer than 48 hours. For cases with negative results by IHC, consideration should be given to performing confirmatory analysis by in-situ hybridization. There is also a table in the original ASCO/CAP Guideline Recommendations for Her2 in Breast Cancer (Arch Pathol Lab Med, Vol 131, Jan 2007) that states that tissue fixed in formalin for greater than 48 hours is not an absolute exclusion criterion, but if known to be fixed longer than 48 hours or unknown, the report should qualify any negative result with this information (table 6). As for upcoming changes, i don't know other than these time limitations are suppose to be more rigorously applied to ER and PR, along with the newly instituted documentation of time between excision and time placed in fixative. Bill Tench Associate Dir. Laboratory Services Chief, Cytology Services Palomar Medical Center 555 E. Valley Parkway Escondido, California 92025 bill.te...@pph.org Voice: 760- 739-3037 Fax: 760-739-2604 [None] made the following annotations - Confidential E-Mail: This e-mail is intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged, confidential, or otherwise protected from disclosure. Dissemination, distribution, or copying of this e-mail or the information herein by anyone other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and destroy the original message and all copies. - ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Confidentiality Notice: This e-mail, including any attachments is the property of Catholic Health East and is intended for the sole use of the intended recipient(s). It may contain information that is privileged and confidential. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended
RE: [Histonet] Clarification-interfacing the IHC bond and Cassettelabelers to Co-Path
We have interfaced our Bonds with Soft Path LIS system. My justification for this started with using it for LEAN processes in that the orders for IHC went directly from the Pathologist to the Bond and eliminated the need for my techs to have to input individual orders for IHC by hand. Since we have set up our slide labelers to be recognized as just another printer as far as the LIS is concerned, we do not use paper labels at all but have 2d barcodes printed directly on our slides. When an order is put in by the pathologist for IHC, my techs can see the order, cut the section and print the slide with the correct bar code. Bond recognizes the barcode and initializes the tests that have been ordered and transferred from the pathologist. This has accomplished the following: No tech time lost in printing labels for slides to go on the bond. No ambiguity or lost IHC orders due to hand writing orders by the pathologist. No chance of keystroke errors on the part of my IHC tech while putting manual orders into the Bond. In addition to eliminating hand writing and manual keystrokes, which are distinct patient safety issue, I have calculated that having the interface has saved me approximately 0.7 FTE. Instead of having to hire extra staff to cover increased workloads or wasting existing staff on extraneous tasks (hand labeling, manually entering orders, etc), I can utilize them in other areas. The patient safety aspect of eliminating extra tasks involving manual data entry is huge. A majority of the lawsuits against pathology labs involve some aspect of human error resulting from manual tasks in labeling or data entry. In addition to being able to market my lab as patient safety focused, we have eliminated a major source of potential lawsuits. It's hard to put a price tag on what that saves other than to say that the costs are sometimes much more than the dollar figures paid out. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Akemi Allison Sent: Thursday, October 21, 2010 4:01 PM To: Walter Benton Cc: Histonet Subject: Re: [Histonet] Clarification-interfacing the IHC bond and Cassettelabelers to Co-Path Hi Walter and Histo-subscribers, Ist I want to thank Walter for his quick reply. I appreciate your answer! 2nd, I appreciate any and all replies, but does anyone have an article that addresses issues that can occur such as: Efficiency Omitting Duplication of Tests ordered: Additional Slides, Special Stains, IHC, FISH, CISH, Cost effectiveness due to omission of errors Patient Safety Thanks Akemi Allison BS, HT (ASCP) HTL Director Phoenix Lab Consulting Tele: 408.335.9994 E-Mail: akemiat3...@yahoo.com On Oct 21, 2010, at 11:38 AM, Walter Benton wrote: Efficiency Patient Safety Orders for the Bond come directly from the LIS and can not be misunderstood due to poor handwriting, since they are interfaced with the LIS. Walter Benton HT(ASCP)QIHC Histology Supervisor Chesapeake Urology Associates 806 Landmark Drive, Suite 126 (All Deliveries to Suite 127) Glen Burnie, MD 21061 443-471-5850 (Direct) 410-768-5961 (Lab) 410-768-5965 (Fax) wben...@cua.md From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet- boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Akemi Allison [akemiat3...@yahoo.com] Sent: Thursday, October 21, 2010 2:33 PM To: Histonet Subject: [Histonet] interfacing the IHC bond and Cassette labelers to Co-Path Hi out there in Histo Land! I would like your assistance in answering a question that was proposed by a friend who is not a histonet member. I don't have the answer, but know that one of you would. Below is the question: Could you help me justify the importance of interfacing our IHC bond and Cassette labelers to Co-Path? A simple paragraph, or if you have, a white paper, that would be great. I am attempting to get the interfaces approved through our IT Department and running up against some roadblocks. Thank you in advance for your assistance, Akemi Allison BS, HT (ASCP) HTL Director Phoenix Lab Consulting Tele: 408.335.9994 E-Mail: akemiat3...@yahoo.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 ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] Tissue Processor Advice
We are using the Peloris with a 2 hr, 4 hr and 8 hr protocol. We run 2 hour protocols throughout the day with an average of 4-5 runs per day depending on specimen volume. We really like this processor. We have had them for 10 months now, are using factory protocols and have not had any specimens that have been either under or over processed. The techs and the pathologists are very pleased with it. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of caymanfl...@gmail.com Sent: Friday, October 22, 2010 4:17 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Tissue Processor Advice We are in need of some advice regarding rapid tissue processors. Models we are considering: Sakura Xpress Leica Peloris Thermo STP 420 It seems none of these models are perfect in every respect. I'm interested in anyone's opinions of these processors and your experience with them. All input is appreciated! ___ 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] FW: Joint Commission seeks NSH Member Response
Hey Histonetters. How about all of us getting involved in providing some input to the Joint Commission on their accreditation standards with regard to Histopathology. Apparently, there has not been a great response from the histology community to this request. This is our opportunity to impact the way we are looked at by this accreditation agency. Thanks, Steve From: Carrie Diamond [mailto:car...@nsh.org] Sent: Tuesday, October 12, 2010 9:28 PM To: Feher, Stephen Subject: Joint Commission seeks NSH Member Response Dear Stephen: The Joint Commission is requesting your response to the new standards' revisions, especially in the area of histopathology. The Joint Commission Laboratory Accreditation Program recently revised the existing laboratory accreditation standards and developed new standards in several specialty areas. These changes were made in response to feedback from customer surveys conducted in the fall of 2009, as well as an expert panel review in collaboration with the ASCP. More information on these revisions and the field review response process, please visit: http://www.jointcommission.org/Standards/FieldReviews/ http://www.jointcommission.org/Standards/FieldReviews/ The changes in these standards will directly impact the day to day activities for Joint Commission accredited laboratories. Participation in this survey gives you the opportunity to have an influence on your accreditation standards and elements of performance. The survey was opened on Sept. 8, 2010 and will be available until October 20, 2010. At this time, the Joint Commission has received very few responses for the histopathology section, so we are asking for your help to spread the word and to gather responses for the survey. Thank you, Carrie Diamond, Executive Director On behalf of the Board of Directors ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] cassette labelers
We are using Leica's IPC and IPS slide labelers. We do not hand write labels but use bar code scanners to implement LEAN protocols and to add to our patient safety efforts. These units are set up as one would configure any other printer on a network. They can also be set up to operate on an individual PC. We set ours up with it's own CPU so it is recognized as a network printer by our LIS and can be accessed by anyone in the lab. The slide labeler has been configured to print the correct ThinPrep Imager required codes as well. A bar code and an accession number equate to two unique patient identifiers which complies with CAP and Joint Commission. Thermo has and Bradley have smaller units for low use areas. Leica's have a larger footprint but are primarily for high use labs. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of wanda.sm...@hcahealthcare.com Sent: Friday, October 08, 2010 10:05 AM To: rsrichm...@gmail.com; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] cassette labelers We have a new Leica/Surgipath cassette labeler after using the old Surgipath cassette labeler for approximately 10 years with no problems. Our Biomed would change the print head ever year or two because the pins would wear our. The new Leica/Surgipath labeler prints accession number and patient's name. You print cassettes one at a time and you can set the labeler to automatically advance the case number or block number. It's fast and easy! We love it! Wanda WANDA G. SMITH, HTL(ASCP)HT Pathology Supervisor TRIDENT MEDICAL CENTER 9330 Medical Plaza Drive Charleston, SC 29406 843-847-4586 843-847-4296 fax This email and any files transmitted with it may contain PRIVILEGED or CONFIDENTIAL information and may be read or used only by the intended recipient. If you are not the intended recipient of the email or any of its attachments, please be advised that you have received this email in error and that any use, dissemination, distribution, forwarding, printing, or copying of this email or any attached files is strictly prohibited. If you have received this email in error, please immediately purge it and all attachments and notify the sender by reply email or contact the sender at the number listed. -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Robert Richmond Sent: Thursday, October 07, 2010 10:16 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] cassette labelers I'm advising a locum tenens client of mine about acquiring a cassette labeler. The only one I'm familiar with is Thermo Scientific's Cassette MicroWriter. Some questions for HistoNet: 1) A JCAHO inspector informed them that a cassette labeler will soon be required. Does anyone know if this is in fact the case? 2) Will the labeler print patients' names, or other second identifiers such as JCAHO now requires? 3) Are these labelers available in the used instrument market? 4) Is there any competition, or is the Thermo product all there is? 5) How well do these labelers withstand use? Bob Richmond Samurai Pathologist Knoxville TN ___ 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] Equipment Purchase Questions
Karen, I would highly recommend Leica's Peloris processor. We use it for rapid tissue processing (2 hour processing time for cores and small specimens). It gives us the option of using one retort for rapid processing and the other for more conventional processing. We are also saving on reagents since we do not have to change out the entire processor weekly or twice per week. Peloris keeps track of the reagents and lets us know when one of them needs to be changed. We have been using our two units for a little over 9 months and we have yet to have anything either over or under processed. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Cruise, Karen Sent: Thursday, October 07, 2010 12:09 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Equipment Purchase Questions Hello Histo Community, We are currently looking to purchase several items. I'm hoping someone can shed light on whether or not we are headed in the right direction. Processor: Initially we were leaning towards the Leica ASP 300, now I'm wondering if we are about to purchase to much processor for the needs of our lab. We process maybe 50 blocks per month. We are unable to use a microwave processor. We process about 95% breast tissue. Someone mentioned the TP1020. Has anyone any comments on this processor. We are also looking to purchase a ph meter and a fume adsorber, any recommendations ? Your responses will be greatly appreciated as we are looking to purchase before the end of the month. Thanks for all your help and suggestions, Karen Karen E. Cruise Histologist / Research Technician II Washington University School of Medicine Laboratory for Translational Pathology 216 S. Kingshighway Rm #2332 St Louis, MO 63110 314-454-8636 Office 314-454-5525 Fax kcru...@path.wustl.edu ___ 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] Question about Oil Red O controls
Believe it or not, mayonnaise makes a great control for Oil Red O. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Andrea Grantham Sent: Wednesday, October 06, 2010 3:42 PM Cc: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] Question about Oil Red O controls Komal, I don't know what kind of lab you are in, I'm in a core facility and I do histology on research projects. When I get an ORO this is what I do for a control: I get a piece of tissue like mouse kidney with some fat attached or maybe some muscle with fat and have it snap frozen. I have found that the frozen blocks stay good for a long time at -80ºC and so do the frozen sections on slides. I always cut a bunch of slides and store them and take one out when I have the stain ordered. Andi Andrea Grantham, HT (ASCP) Senior Research Specialist University of Arizona Cell Biology and Anatomy Histology Service Laboratory P.O.Box 245044 Tucson, AZ 85724 algra...@email.arizona.edu Tel: 520.626.4415 Fax: 520.626.2097 happy slicing and dicing and may all your stains work perfectly - Paula Sicurello P Please consider the environment before printing this email. On Oct 6, 2010, at 6:15 AM, Komal Gada wrote: Hello Histonetters, I am trying to find a procedure for using butter and egg yolks as controls for the Oil Red O stain (to show the fat). Does anyone have something they would be able to share with me? Thanks, Komal ___ 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
[Histonet] Problems with listserv
I am having some issues with receiving email from the listserv. I was successfully receiving email and it suddenly stopped. If I have been unsubscribed, please re subscribe my email address. sfe...@cmc-nh.org Thank you, Steve Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org mailto:sfe...@cmc-nh.org ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] Cassette Labeler
Thermo has a relatively low cost labeler for smaller quantities of cassette printing. The cost of the labeler versus the cost and potential for errors (hand writing) needs to be considered when making this kind of decision. You might want to do a study where you actually measure the time it takes to label one cassette. Make sure you start the clock from the time the tech actually prepares to label the cassette until they are finished and place the cassette down. Multiply that times the number of cassettes. Take that answer and multiply it times the tech salary plus benefits and you get the actual cost of hand labeling the cassettes. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of dianar...@aol.com Sent: Thursday, September 16, 2010 8:45 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Cassette Labeler I work in a small lab and process approx 150 cassettes a day. We currently use a chemical resistant pen that works great. We write the number on top and the patient initials on the side. We are considering getting a cassette labeler. Is it really worth the expense for 150 blocks a day? Is it possible to enter information on the side of the cassette? Can you share some of your experience with different ones with me. ___ 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] filtering cytology stains
Hi Brandi, Depending on your stain line set up and the number of FNA's that you are doing, you may want to consider having multiple stain set up's that you can switch to in a hurry. This works well if you only filter stains and change alcohols. You can keep several boats or the smaller manual staining dishes filled with Hematoxlyn, OG and EA. Even better and quicker if you use the EA/OG combo stain. The stain dishes or boats that were used for positive FNA's can be tagged with a colored sticker and set aside to be filtered all together. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of louise renton Sent: Thursday, September 16, 2010 3:16 AM To: Brandi Higgins; Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Re: [Histonet] filtering cytology stains Hi - why not look at something like a millipore (millivex) syringe filter? This website has the application choice on it - or perhaps speak to your Millipore rep? http://www.millipore.com/techpublications/tech1/pb1951en00 On Wed, Sep 15, 2010 at 6:49 PM, Brandi Higgins brandihigg...@gmail.comwrote: Hello All, I was wondering how you are filtering your cytology stains. We are a relatively small lab, so we have been gravity filtering our cytology stains, but as we are getting busier with a larger volume of slides, especially fna's this is becoming a very time consuming process. I think vacuum filtration would be almost as lengthy a process. It was suggested that we look into getting some 200ml syringes that can come with an attached filter to suck in and pump out the fluid for faster filtration...is anyone using such a process? If so, do you have product names/numbers for the filters or the syringes. If anyone has another method they are using I would like to hear any suggestions. Thanks in advance for you input, Brandi Higgins, BS, HT(ASCP) ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet -- Louise Renton Bone Research Unit University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg South Africa +27 11 717 2298 (tel fax) 073 5574456 (emergencies only) There are nights when the wolves are silent and only the moon howls. George Carlin No trees were killed in the sending of this message. However, many electrons were terribly inconvenienced. ___ 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] Formalin Incidental Spill vs a Release
I trying to see if there is an industry standard for pathology labs regarding formalin spills. Can you tell me what volume of a formalin spill is considered an incidental spill that can be cleaned up by staff versus the volume of formalin that would constitute a Release requiring a Haz Mat team or a responder (such as a fire department) from outside of the hospital or lab to clean it up. I will appreciate seeing how this is handled in your institution. Thanks, Steve Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org mailto:sfe...@cmc-nh.org ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] new lab design
You will want to make sure which equipment will require it's own dedicated circuit and make sure that's marked on the plans accordingly. One example is the ThinPrep Imager, which does require a dedicated circuit. If you have the luxury, I would suggest trying to get dedicated circuits for as many pieces of sensitive equipment as possible to avoid future issues as the equipment is upgraded. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of jstaruk Sent: Tuesday, September 14, 2010 8:24 AM To: 'Histonet' Subject: RE: [Histonet] new lab design Yes! We ran power strips along every bench-top ___ James E. Staruk HT(ASCP) www.masshistology.com www.nehorselabs.com -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Edwards, Richard E. Sent: Tuesday, September 14, 2010 4:24 AM To: 'Feher, Stephen'; Blazek, Linda; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] new lab design Just make sure you have many many many power sockets. -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Feher, Stephen Sent: 13 September 2010 17:29 To: Blazek, Linda; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] new lab design Hi Linda, We designed one from scratch without having a previous Path Lab in the hospital before. We are doing a workshop to that end at NSH in Seattle (WS 50). If you cannot attend the workshop, I will be happy to help in any that I can. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Blazek, Linda Sent: Monday, September 13, 2010 8:10 AM To: 'Histonet' Subject: [Histonet] new lab design Good morning all. I am in the process of designing a new lab. We have grown beyond our walls and will be moving to a new building. If anyone has any great suggestions or ideas they would like to share I'd love your input! I'm still looking for a couple of tech too! Thanks, Linda Our Vision: To be the #1 choice for all your GI services Linda Blazek HT (ASCP) Manager/Supervisor GI Pathology of Dayton Digestive Specialists, Inc 7415 Brandt Pike Huber Heights, OH 45424 Phone: (937) 293-4424 ext 7118 Email: lbla...@digestivespecialists.commailto:lbla...@digestivespecialists.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 ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 9.0.851 / Virus Database: 271.1.1/3119 - Release Date: 09/13/10 14:35:00 ___ 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] new lab design
Hi Linda, We designed one from scratch without having a previous Path Lab in the hospital before. We are doing a workshop to that end at NSH in Seattle (WS 50). If you cannot attend the workshop, I will be happy to help in any that I can. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Blazek, Linda Sent: Monday, September 13, 2010 8:10 AM To: 'Histonet' Subject: [Histonet] new lab design Good morning all. I am in the process of designing a new lab. We have grown beyond our walls and will be moving to a new building. If anyone has any great suggestions or ideas they would like to share I'd love your input! I'm still looking for a couple of tech too! Thanks, Linda Our Vision: To be the #1 choice for all your GI services Linda Blazek HT (ASCP) Manager/Supervisor GI Pathology of Dayton Digestive Specialists, Inc 7415 Brandt Pike Huber Heights, OH 45424 Phone: (937) 293-4424 ext 7118 Email: lbla...@digestivespecialists.commailto:lbla...@digestivespecialists.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] new lab design
Thanks Tim! Steve -Original Message- From: Podawiltz, Thomas [mailto:tpodawi...@lrgh.org] Sent: Monday, September 13, 2010 12:38 PM To: Feher, Stephen; Blazek, Linda; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] new lab design FYI, I have been to Steve's lab. They have a great layout. A lot of time and effort was spent in the design of it and it shows. Tom Podawiltz HT (ASCP) Histology Section Head/Laboratory Safety Officer LRGHealthcare 603-524-3211 ext: 3220 -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Feher, Stephen Sent: Monday, September 13, 2010 12:29 PM To: Blazek, Linda; Histonet Subject: RE: [Histonet] new lab design Hi Linda, We designed one from scratch without having a previous Path Lab in the hospital before. We are doing a workshop to that end at NSH in Seattle (WS 50). If you cannot attend the workshop, I will be happy to help in any that I can. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Blazek, Linda Sent: Monday, September 13, 2010 8:10 AM To: 'Histonet' Subject: [Histonet] new lab design Good morning all. I am in the process of designing a new lab. We have grown beyond our walls and will be moving to a new building. If anyone has any great suggestions or ideas they would like to share I'd love your input! I'm still looking for a couple of tech too! Thanks, Linda Our Vision: To be the #1 choice for all your GI services Linda Blazek HT (ASCP) Manager/Supervisor GI Pathology of Dayton Digestive Specialists, Inc 7415 Brandt Pike Huber Heights, OH 45424 Phone: (937) 293-4424 ext 7118 Email: lbla...@digestivespecialists.commailto:lbla...@digestivespecialists.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 THIS MESSAGE IS CONFIDENTIAL. This e-mail message and any attachments are proprietary and confidential information intended only for the use of the recipient(s) named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you may not print,distribute, or copy this message or any attachments. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender by return e-mail and delete this message and any attachments from your computer. Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of LRGHealthcare. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] LIS, HIS question
What LIS and HIS systems are you using Jan? We are beginning our quest to do electronic order entry between SoftPath and our Sunrise HIS system. I know that Dartmouth Hitchcock Med Ctr in NH was successful in doing this from Cerner Millennium as well. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Mahoney,Janice A Sent: Friday, September 10, 2010 8:39 AM To: histo...@pathology.swmed.edu Subject: [Histonet] LIS, HIS question Good Morning Everyone, Happy Friday, I'm interested to know if anyone is paperless with Histology ordering from surgery. We still use requisitions and are beginning the quest to go paperless but are having difficulty with all the variables we have in regard to the specimens we receive. Jan Mahoney Omaha, NE GO HUSKERS! Sponsored by Catholic Health Initiatives and Immanuel, Alegent Health is faithful to the healing ministry of Jesus Christ, providing high quality care for the body, mind and spirit of every person. The information contained in this communication, including attachments, is confidential and private and intended only for the use of the addressees. Unauthorized use, disclosure, distribution or copying is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful. If you received this communication in error, please inform us of the erroneous delivery by return e-mail message from your computer. Additionally, although all attachments have been scanned at the source for viruses, the recipient should check any attachments for the presence of viruses before opening. Alegent Health accepts no liability for any damage caused by any virus transmitted by this e-mail. Thank you for your cooperation. ___ 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] LIS, HIS question
Sharon, We are using SoftPath with the Bond Max system. I will be presenting WS#50 Designing a LEAN Pathology Lab from Scratch, on Monday, Sept 27 at 8 am. We can meet after the workshop or perhaps it may come up during the workshop. I have quite a few lessons learned and would have, could have, should have's from my experience in bringing Soft in without having an LIS that it was replacing. I would be happy to meet with you to discuss this. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Sharon Scalise Sent: Friday, September 10, 2010 5:30 PM To: histo...@pathology.swmed.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] LIS, HIS question We will be going live with Soft next March and I am looking for anyone currently using SoftPath to discuss some issues with. We are also interested in anyone using SoftPath that is doing immunohistochemistry. If you will be at the NSH meeting in Seattle we would love to meet with you and share information. Sharon E. Scalise, HTL (ASCP) Histology Supervisor William Beaumont Hospital Royal Oak, MI 48073 248 898-5981 sscal...@beaumonthospitals.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] bar coding specimens, slides, blocks
We have had a great deal of success using Leica's IPC and IPS cassette and slide labelers. We use Soft Path but I had heard that the Leica LIS experts have experience interfacing with a number of LIS systems. We set these up basically as just another printer that is interfaced with our LIS system. The software within the Leica labelers produces the cassettes and slides with any configuration of accession number and/or bar code that you would like. We chose to use 2d barcode to save space on the cassette and slide. We also print our ThinPrep slides this way. Leica and Hologic got together to make sure we were able to use the correct coding to use these slides on our ThinPrep Imager. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Horn, Hazel V Sent: Wednesday, September 08, 2010 4:08 PM To: histo...@pathology.swmed.edu Subject: [Histonet] bar coding specimens, slides, blocks I am looking for a vendor that has the capability to barcode specimens, blocks and slides. Also if it can interface with Meditech client server 6.0 it would be a plus. Hazel Horn Hazel Horn, HT/HTL (ASCP) Supervisor of Autopsy/Histology/Transcription Arkansas Children's Hospital 1 Children's WaySlot 820 Little Rock, AR 72202 phone 501.364.4240 fax501.364.3155 visit us on the web at:www.archildrens.org ** The information contained in this message may be privileged and confidential and protected from disclosure. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or an employee or agent responsible for delivering this 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 notify us immediately by replying to the message and deleting it from your computer. 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] Pathology billing for consultation
There are a couple of ways to handle this and most of them have already been mentioned. We have a contract Pathology group in our hospital so if the patient insurance does not pay, the consultant bills the Pathology Group. Unless your pathologists are completely sold on their expert consultants, outside labs such as Genzyme will do the third party billing if you use their consultants. I know that they accept insurance assignment and have relationships with most large insurers so the patient rarely gets stuck with a bill. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Demarinis, Carolyn Sent: Wednesday, September 08, 2010 9:22 AM To: histo...@pathology.swmed.edu Subject: [Histonet] Pathology billing for consultation I would like to know how other pathology labs are billing for consultations that are sent out by pathologist for second opinion. Our process is to notify the physician's office that a case is being sent to an expert and, if required, the physician's office is responsible for obtaining precertification if the patient's insurance require it. Unfortunately, this has caused us a number of problems. If the consultant is not in-network, the insurance does not cover this expense, and the patient is responsible for the bill. Is it a better option for the hospital to receive all bills from consultants, and in turn, the hospital will bill the patient? If so, are there problems associated with this? Or are other laboratories having the consultants bill the patient's insurance directly, and if so, are they experiencing similar problems? Thanks. Carolyn DeMarinis, Pathology Supervisor Saratoga Hospital Laboratory This e-mail communication and any attachments may contain confidential and privileged information for the use of the designated recipients named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you have received this communication in error and that any review, disclosure, dissemination, distribution or copying of it or its contents is prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify Saratoga Hospital immediately by e-mail at priv...@saratogacare.org and destroy all copies of this communication and any attachments. ___ 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] Technical Assistant or plain Lab Assistant?
We created a position for a Pathology Technician. The duties are similar to those you mention with the addition of Morgue Diener. Some of our Path Techs are CAP qualified to gross small tissue specimens. In the near future we will be creating tiers to the Path Tech position, Path Tech I, Path Tech II, etc. Those qualified to gross in tissue would be graded higher than those that are not qualified to do so. Tiers could be geared towards Diener qualifications, hazardous waste handling qualifications, etc. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of cathy.crump...@tuality.org Sent: Thursday, September 02, 2010 3:04 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Technical Assistant or plain Lab Assistant? I need help from my fellow histotechs. We are creating a po=ition for a histology lab assistant. We need someone to assist the p athologist when grossing (not grossing themselves), clean machines, file, d=ta entry and accessioning, etc. We are trying to decide if this posi=tion should be a Technical Assistant job code or a plain Lab Assistant code=. I wanted to know if you have any such assistants in your area and w=at their category was. If it is a technical assistant, what exactly =makes the position worth the higher pay grade? This is difficult beca=use there in not a certification for a histology lab assistant and they do =ot run analyzers or testing machinery. Cath= Crumpton HT(ASCP), Histology Lead Tuality Community Hospital Hillsb=ro, OR 97123 (503)681-1292 ___ 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] Hawaii
Sorry Sara. Guess I should have read all of the posts regarding your question. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of sgoe...@xbiotech.com Sent: Friday, August 20, 2010 10:37 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Hawaii Does anyone know of any open positions in Hawaii, and what is the expected payscale there? I have a BA, HT, and a very good knowledge of IHC. I have 6 years registered experience with 2 years histo. lab =assistant before that. I know things are insane expensive. Me a nd my fiance might be moving there because of his job. Any help would=e awesome!! Sarah Goebel, B.A., HT (ASCP) Histotechnician XBiotech USA Inc. 8201 East Riverside Dr. Bldg 4 Suite 100 Austin, Texas 78744 [DEL: (5=2)386-5107 :DEL] ___ 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] Hawaii
Sara - You might want to check the Federal Government website for positions at the Army hospital there. They usually have plenty of openings for short supply medical specialist like histotechs. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of sgoe...@xbiotech.com Sent: Friday, August 20, 2010 10:37 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Hawaii Does anyone know of any open positions in Hawaii, and what is the expected payscale there? I have a BA, HT, and a very good knowledge of IHC. I have 6 years registered experience with 2 years histo. lab =assistant before that. I know things are insane expensive. Me a nd my fiance might be moving there because of his job. Any help would=e awesome!! Sarah Goebel, B.A., HT (ASCP) Histotechnician XBiotech USA Inc. 8201 East Riverside Dr. Bldg 4 Suite 100 Austin, Texas 78744 [DEL: (5=2)386-5107 :DEL] ___ 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] Frozen Section Images
Are any of you using equipment that will send an image of a frozen section diagnosis directly to the LCD monitors located in the Operating Room? We will be attempting to have the capability to do this by using a Leica digital camera that is interfaced to a CPU and attached to a microscope in a room adjacent to our OR suites. The idea is for the surgeon to be able to see the cellular detail of the frozen section diagnosis. Thanks, Steve Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org mailto:sfe...@cmc-nh.org ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] voice recognition
Carol we are using Dragon with a Voice Brook interface. Dragon will work by itself but has some issues with Pathology terminology. Voice Brook was created specifically for Pathology. Our staff, PA's and Pathologists really like this configuration. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Carol Bryant Sent: Thursday, August 12, 2010 3:02 PM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] voice recognition Is anyone using voice recognition with SoftPath for dictating? If so, what software program are you using and does it work well? Thank you in advance for any comments. Carol Bryant, CT (ASCP) Cytology/Histology Manager Pathology Services Lexington Clinic Phone (859) 258-4082 Fax (859) 258-4081 cb...@lexclin.com NOTICE OF CONFIDENTIALITY This message, including any attachments, is intended only for the sole use of the addressee and may contain confidential or privileged information that is protected by the State of Kentucky and/or Federal regulations. If you are not the intended recipient, do not read, copy, retain or disseminate this message or any attachment. If you have received this message in error, please call the sender immediately at (859)258-4000 and delete all copies of this message and any attachment. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, copying or distribution is strictly prohibited. Neither the transmission of this message or any attachment, nor any error in transmission or misdelivery shall constitute waiver of any applicable legal privilege. ___ 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] searching for pathology dictation system
Melanie, We are using a voice recognition system that interfaces with our LIS. We are using Dragon with a Voice Brook interface. Voice Brook is a pathology specific system that really enhances and picks up on the most challenging medical terminology. We use this for Gross, Pathologist Dictation and Autopsy and have had a great deal of success with it. The PA and Pathologist edit their own dictation as they go along so that when they are finished the report is ready to be finagled. Everything is standardized and template driven. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of mwh...@mcleodhealth.org Sent: Thursday, August 05, 2010 9:08 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] searching for pathology dictation system We still use dictaphones for gross dictation. Does anyone have a system you can recommend? Melanie S. White, MT(ASCP) Laboratory Supervisor, Systems/Anatomic Pathology McLeod Regional Medical Center (843) 777-2072 ___ 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] Utilization of consultation services
Christi, Much depends on the composition of your cases and what your pathologists feel comfortable signing out. Some labs look at those cases that can be signed out quickly or have relatively high profit margins to do in house. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Cristi stephenson Sent: Tuesday, July 20, 2010 5:04 PM To: Histo Net Subject: [Histonet] Utilization of consultation services Hello Histoland, I am currently researching the utilization of consultation services for our lab. We are a physician owned lab and therefore only have one pathologist on site at a time. Does anyone else track this type of information? Would you be willing to share the percentage of cases sent out to cases read? Any assistance is greatly appreciated. Thanks, Cristi ___ 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] Cytology 100 slide limit
Victor, Rene is correct in stating that CLIA allows Gyn Liquid Based Paps to be counted as 1/2 slide. It gets tricky when you start mixing 1/2 slide counts and full slide counts in making sure the techs do not exceed 100 slides (or in the case of LBP's 200 slides). If you get a lot of FNA's the counts can go up very quickly. Most LIS systems can prevent Techs from exceeding their limit. I would check again to see why your LIS is not capturing the NON-Gyn slides. Another CAP and CLIA requirement is that each 6 months, the cytotechs are supposed to have a Competency Assessment where the Medical Director signs off on the maximum number of slides each tech is qualified to screen. This is the number that most labs place in the LIS as the max that particular tech can review. What LIS system do you have? Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Friday, July 16, 2010 5:21 PM To: Histonet; Victor Tobias Subject: Re: [Histonet] Cytology 100 slide limit Victor: As you wrote, either you have to be diligent in recording your work, or you will have to modify the software of the LIS system to account correctly. On the other hand, if you are dealing with liquid base samples usually using a Thin-Prep Imaging System (TIS) and the sample covers one-half or less of the slide surface, CLIA88 has expanded the limit from 100 to 200 slides/day. René J. --- On Fri, 7/16/10, Victor Tobias vic...@pathology.washington.edu wrote: From: Victor Tobias vic...@pathology.washington.edu Subject: [Histonet] Cytology 100 slide limit To: Histonet Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Friday, July 16, 2010, 3:33 PM Our Cytology Supervisor was telling me about the 100 slide maximum that they can screen in a day. Our LIS is not capturing the NON-GYN slides being screened, so unless you are very diligent in recording the slides screened, you could go over the 100 limit. Our supervisor also believes the computer system should notify the user when the limit has been reached and prevent them from continuing. Is this a CAP requirement? How are you dealing with this problem or is it a problem for you? Victor -- Victor Tobias Clinical Applications Analyst University of Washington Medical Center Dept of Pathology Room BB220 1959 NE Pacific Seattle, WA 98195 vic...@pathology.washington.edu 206-598-2792 206-598-7659 Fax = Privileged, confidential or patient identifiable information may be contained in this message. This information is meant only for the use of the intended recipients. If you are not the intended recipient, or if the message has been addressed to you in error, do not read, disclose, reproduce, distribute, disseminate or otherwise use this transmission. Instead, please notify the sender by reply e-mail, and then destroy all copies of the message and any attachments. ___ 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] Correct CPT?
Sara, We bill 88173 for our FNA's along with the 88305 when we do a cell block. We have not had an issue with any of these getting kicked back. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Sara Baldwin/mhhcc.org Sent: Friday, July 09, 2010 11:50 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Correct CPT? Hey histoland When we do an FNA we sometimes have a cell block and we bill CPT 88160 and 88305 These are sometimes kicked back to us and we put a 59 modifier on the 88305 then it goes thru. Are we doing this correct ? Any advice? Thanks Pathology Supervisor Kathy Baldwin, SCT (ASCP) Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center sbald...@mhhcc.org Ph 812-482-0210, 482-0216, Fax 812-482-0232, Pager 812-481-0897 Confidential information, Authorized use only. ___ 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] BILLING QUESTION
You can contract for services to another lab or hospital and depending upon the terms of the contract, you may be able to bill the patient. For example, you send all of your HER2's and ER/PR to another lab to be stained and quantified into a score. You may contract with the other lab for them to charge you a flat fee for the service and you will bill the patient for 88361x3. The other side is that you can contract for the other hospital to do the test, bill the patient and your hospital pays no fee but misses out on some of the compensation. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Cynthia Pyse Sent: Friday, July 02, 2010 1:52 PM To: 'Sara Baldwin/mhhcc.org'; histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: RE: [Histonet] BILLING QUESTION We have a contract with the hospitals, this comes from our billing manger. We bill the hospitals, then they bill the patient. Cindy Pyse, CLT, HT (ASCP) Histology Supervisor X-Cell Laboratories e-mail cp...@x-celllab.com -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Sara Baldwin/mhhcc.org Sent: Friday, July 02, 2010 11:59 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] BILLING QUESTION Histonetters: If you do some work for another hospital (Histology) can you bill the hospital or do you have to bill the patient directly? Is there a statute or Regulation out there about this? Thanks Pathology Supervisor Kathy Baldwin, SCT (ASCP) Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center sbald...@mhhcc.org Ph 812-482-0210, 482-0216, Fax 812-482-0232, Pager 812-481-0897 Confidential information, Authorized use only. ___ 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] Tissue Processors
We have 2 Peloris processors and run protocols ranging from 2 hrs to overnight. Several 2 and 4 hour protocols daily keeps a constant flow of specimens moving through the lab for those interested in LEAN small batch processing. As far as programmability, it 's all touch screen driven and easy. It's a smart processor so we don't change all solutions weekly. We only change the ones that are needed. The parameters that determine how long to use a particular solution are also programmable. Changing solutions is done by pumping out of the individual bottles and into waste containers and refilling is pumped from clean containers of solution back into the original containers. No heavy lifting required. Ours are in a separate room from our microtomy area so we hooked a simple door bell up to the local alarm jack on the back. When processing is done, we get the appropriate tone. Remote alarm is also tied in to the hospital switchboard in case a processor goes down at night or during the weekend. We really like the versatility and dependability of these processors. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of mohamed abd el razik Sent: Saturday, June 26, 2010 3:41 PM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: Fw: [Histonet] Tissue Processors i need it too as we are going to bring new tissue processor to our small lab --- On Sat, 6/26/10, Shirley Pan sj_...@yahoo.com wrote: From: Shirley Pan sj_...@yahoo.com Subject: [Histonet] Tissue Processors To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Saturday, June 26, 2010, 7:55 AM We are in the process of trying out tissue processors. Are there any users of the Leica Peloris or Thermo EG who can help us out with some opinions? Reliability, ease of changing solutions, programmability? Thanks for any help. ___ 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] Special Stainer
Dako's Artisan Link is great. We are looking to interface this with our SoftPath LIS system. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Jason Keller Sent: Monday, June 28, 2010 2:03 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] Special Stainer I am looking to replace the automated stainer for special stains in our lab. I am currently collecting quotes but would also appreciate some input regarding satisfaction or dissatisfaction with some of the models that are available. Any input on what you think of some of these machines/companies would be appreciated. Thank you! CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This electronic mail transmission may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential. Additionally, this communication may contain individual protected health information (PHI) that is subject to protection under state and federal laws, or other privileged, confidential or proprietary information of Cape Fear Valley Health System that may not be further disclosed. Please be advised that any disclosure, copying, distribution or other use of the contents of this message by anyone other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify the sender immediately by replying to the message and deleting it from your computer. ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] (no subject)
We retain them until the specimen is signed out, usually no more than 3 days. This has been helpful if the specimen container labeling is called into question either by the pathologist (because the cellular profile does not match what the specimen source indicates) or the clinician. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Hartz, Rhonda SktnHR Sent: Tuesday, June 22, 2010 5:55 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] (no subject) Hi. This is my first time, so I apologize if I am not clear enough. We have had a request from one of our pathologists to retain empty specimen containers after grossing is complete. Is anyone aware of any recommendations, or does anyone out there retain their empty specimen containers? Rhonda Hartz Technologist Supervisor Anatomic Pathology Division Saskatoon Health Region (306) 655-8197 rhonda.ha...@saskatoonhealthregion.ca ___ 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] fume hood
Hi Brandy, I have recently had the opportunity to build a Path lab from scratch. In the design we decided to completely separate the grossing area from the microtomy and IHC area of the lab. We built a room within a room, made it negative pressure, installed 2 Thermo elevating grossing stations that are vented to the outside. Since we are using the hospital ventilation system in addition to the blowers built in to the back draft, downdraft capabilities of the grossing stations, we were able to set these to pull at 500 cfm each. We also put 2 Peloris processors, with their own charcoal filters, within this room. The result is that we are well under the limits for all fumes and, in the event we get fresh tissue, we can segregate the area from the rest of the lab. Many labs that have to do autopsy on babies or near full term fetus' use their grossing stations to do so. Since we are in a separate area, we can block these procedures from view. We also put in a Labconco Fume hood (vented to the outside) in the IHC area of the lab and a Thermo Bio Hood in the cytoprep area. This has all worked out very well for us and it affords us the opportunities to have these items in place for future growth. A renovation done correctly, with an eye towards strategic planning for the future, will go a long way towards saving the hospital money in the long run. Steve Feher Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center Manchester, NH -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Brandi Higgins Sent: Tuesday, June 15, 2010 9:51 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] fume hood Hello, Our hospital is doing some renovation and we need to look into new fume hoods for our new location. Currently we have one fume hood over our grossing area, and one fume hood in our coverslipping area (two different rooms). The hospital wants to put our grossing room and histo/cyto rooms together. I am still going to need two separate hoods. Does anyone have any experience/knowledge/input about fume hoods? I'm trying to look into the ductless ones, although I imagine changing the filters will end up being more expensive over time (I have no idea what would be involved in running a duct/vent). Also I have seen a benchtop downdraft type that sucks the air down, and does not have a top. It is advertised as being good for xylene. Does anyone use this in their coverslipping area? Any input would be greatly appreciated. I'm pretty clueless on the whole issue. I want to make sure that what I get will be safe for me and my coworker as we will be spending most of our day in this room. Any input is appreciated! Thank You! Brandi Higgins, BS, HT(ASCP) ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] bar-coding
We have SoftPath 4.3 out print servers use version 4.2. We have Leica's IPC and IPS cassette and slide printers and print all our cassettes and slides (we print directly to the slides and do not use paper labels), including ThinPrep slides for the Imager. Leica's application specialists got with SoftPath and got it all working. We have no issues and are printing slides with 2d barcodes. The bar-coded slides work well on the BondMax IHC stainer and we are working on an interface for the Dako Artisan Link. It's all been working well for us. What kind of slide and cassette printers are you using or considering using? Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Carol Bryant Sent: Monday, June 14, 2010 12:34 PM To: Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] bar-coding Does anyone have SoftPath 4.2? If so, do you know if it has the capability to produce bar-coded specimen labels? I am looking into various methods to reduce re-entry of case data and eliminate handwriting of cassettes and slides. I know Ventana's Vantage system can do this for histology, but we also have cytology processing in our lab. I would like to find something that would be uniform for both cytology and histology processing and interface with SoftPath. However, if SoftPath could do this, even better. Thank you in advance for any input. Carol Bryant, CT (ASCP) Cytology/Histology Manager Pathology Services Lexington Clinic Phone (859) 258-4082 Fax (859) 258-4081 cb...@lexclin.com NOTICE OF CONFIDENTIALITY This message, including any attachments, is intended only for the sole use of the addressee and may contain confidential or privileged information that is protected by the State of Kentucky and/or Federal regulations. If you are not the intended recipient, do not read, copy, retain or disseminate this message or any attachment. If you have received this message in error, please call the sender immediately at (859)258-4000 and delete all copies of this message and any attachment. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure, copying or distribution is strictly prohibited. Neither the transmission of this message or any attachment, nor any error in transmission or misdelivery shall constitute waiver of any applicable legal privilege. ___ 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] TX Society meeting?
Contact kdwyer3...@aol.com. April 23-25, Houston, TX. Be sure to sign up for the Designing a LEAN Pathology Lab from Scratch workshop on Saturday, April 24. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Cheryl Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 5:09 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] TX Society meeting? Any word on Texas' regional histology meeting? I'm looking for dates and the registration info for my team-- Thanks! Cheryl Kerry, HT(ASCP) ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] LEICA 2055 AUTOCUT
I have one for the RM2255 if you think that will help. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Lucy Zong Sent: Tuesday, December 29, 2009 6:05 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] LEICA 2055 AUTOCUT I was given a Leica 2055 microtome for our lab, however it did not come with an operators manual. Does anyone have one they could e-mail to me? 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] HT (ASCP) Position Available
I have a full time HT (ASCP) position available at a mid-sized Medical Center in Manchester, NH. This is a hospital based start up opportunity in a brand new lab that starts Dec 1. This is a day shift position. If you are interested apply at: http://www.catholicmedicalcenter.org/Career/JobSearch.aspx or email me sfe...@cmc-nh.org Thanks, Steve Feher Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org mailto:sfe...@cmc-nh.org ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] Licensing?
Here's the link to the Fla DOH Licensure Offices. http://www.doh.state.fl.us/mqa/med-boards.html Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Rene J Buesa Sent: Wednesday, October 07, 2009 8:11 AM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu; Komal Gada Subject: Re: [Histonet] Licensing? The best thing for you to do is to visit the Florida society for histotechnology website. Google the name. René J. --- On Tue, 10/6/09, Komal Gada kjg...@gmail.com wrote: From: Komal Gada kjg...@gmail.com Subject: [Histonet] Licensing? To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Date: Tuesday, October 6, 2009, 9:17 PM Hello all, I am an ASCP certified Histotechnician (HT), i also have NY state license.Can anyone suggest the best way to obtain a Florida license? Thanks, I appreciate your replies. ___ 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
[Histonet] LEAN at NSH
For any of you that are attending NSH in Birmingham and interested in the practical applications of LEAN, I will, along with a professional work flow analyst, be giving a workshop (WS # 8) on Saturday morning. The design is to give a basic overview of LEAN, demonstrate how the principles of LEAN were used in designing a new Pathology lab, and an exercise where the attendees will have the opportunity to design their own unique Path Lab using LEAN principles. It will be a great way to see how this catch phrase everyone is using these days can be put in to practice. Hope to see you there. Steve Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org mailto:sfe...@cmc-nh.org ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
RE: [Histonet] Voice Recognition
We are getting set to launch a Dragon system with a Voice Brooke interface at our lab. One of the questions that slipped by us when we were looking into the various systems was with synoptic reporting. Make sure the system you are looking into will interface with your software LIS to allow synoptic reporting by voice rather than by having to use the computer mouse to select the appropriate synoptic response.Most everything else interfaces very well, including voice commands to acquire images taken with a digital camera. Good Luck, Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Knutson, Deanne Sent: Tuesday, September 29, 2009 9:22 AM To: 'histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu' Subject: [Histonet] Voice Recognition Hello fellow Histonetters - I could use some advice from those who have voice recognition in place at their labs. We are having an online demo given to us soon and I could use some help on any pertinent questions that should be addressed. Are there any concerns that I should be asking about? Would appreciate any pros and cons from all of you. Thank you very much in advance! Deanne Knutson Anatomic Pathology Supervisor St. Alexius Medical Center 900 E. Broadway Bismarck, North Dakota 58506 (701)-530-6730 dknut...@primecare.org mailto:dknut...@primecare.org ___ 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] HT Refresher Courses Anywhere
I would try contacting pathology supervisors directly and explain your situation. There may be some that would allow you to work as a volunteer or as a histology aide to upgrade your skills and experience. If I understood your credentials correctly, you are certified HT by ASCP. A good deal of Histotechnology, after the formal academics, is on the job training. A smart employer would recognize that it would be far less expensive, for them as an organization, to allow you to train and upgrade your skills at their facility than it would be to pay a recruiter to bring in a histotechnologist. Especially if you agreed to a 2 year employment agreement. You should market yourself this way. Your skill is valuable, it just needs a little dusting off and practice not a formal refresher training. This may require you to temporarily relocate for a few months rather than trying to commute. If you are serious about getting back in the histology workforce, this is a small price to pay. You might want to start with the larger academic hospitals in New England and work down from there. Hope this helps. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Paula Sent: Wednesday, September 09, 2009 2:10 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] HT Refresher Courses Anywhere Hello, I am a registered HT but have not worked in the field a long time--late 80s. I have been trying to get back into a lob since 2007 when I lost my last job (typesetting, not lab work.) I have had a recruiter laugh at me. I have tired applying for histology assistant jobs. I had one recruiter tell me that I could be trained in the job IF I had a B.S. in science, but since I didn't, I couldn't be trained. Go figure. I have an A.A. in histotechnology from Harford Community College in Bel Air, MD, and a B.S. in liberal arts (english). I already checked with my A.A. school and they offer no refresher. I did a couple weeks in a lab last year but the travel was too far--Worcester, MA. I did use all the automated equipment that I never used before. Has anyone else tried to re-enter the field and had the same problems? I'm willing to pay a little for a refresher, but don't want to do the whole degree over again. BTW, I am in Milford, MA (metrowest, central)--a little too far from the Boston hospitals to work there (takes a train, AND subway and is just too long a commute). I don't like to commute very far. My SO and I are also considering a move to North Carolina or Colorado, but we're not sure yet. Thanks, Paula ___ 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] diff-quik stain
Thermo Fisher has one called 3 Step Stain good stain and if you want to use Methanol as a fixative, rather than the one that would be ordered as a kit, you can save money by only ordering the 3 Step Stain Solution A and 3 Step Stain Solution B. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of maureen bukhari Sent: Wednesday, September 09, 2009 2:21 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] diff-quik stain Does anyone out there in Histonet -land have a recipe to make my own diff-quik stain or a place to buy it. Is it marketed under another name? Thanks ahead, Maureen Bukhari Phone: 403-210-6524 e-mail: mlbuk...@ucalgary.ca ___ 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] FNA SLIDES
A lot depends on the pathologist and the nature of the specimen. For CT guided biopsies where you get a core and do touch preps. One slide per pass should be sufficient. For FNA's where you get fluid I make two slides per staining medium (some pathologists want Toluene Blue and Diff Quick. Some want a Diff Quik and a Pap Stain). The remainder of the fluid should be put into CytoLyt or other suitable fluid for cell block and/or Liquid Based Cytology processing. It is possible to do a rapid Pap that while not nearly as quick as the Diff Quick is still doable. The bottom line is that it is up to the pathologist that has to look at them. Hope this helps. Steve -Original Message- From: histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-boun...@lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of Jane C. Moose Sent: Monday, August 31, 2009 2:34 PM To: histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu Subject: [Histonet] FNA SLIDES A question has arisen for us- How many slides do you (should you) make per pass for pathologist for adequacy and/or diagnosis? What about CT guided biopsies of liver, lung, masses etc. Thanks in advance for your input. Jane Jane Moose LIS Coordinator Newberry County Memorial Hospital Newberry, SC 29108 P-803-405-7129 F- 803-405-7474 ___ 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] New Lab HTL Opening
Hi Everyone, I have an opening for a Histotechnologist position in New Hampshire. This is a new pathology lab with all new equipment and facilities. The person filling this position will have the opportunity to be a major influence the procedures and processes that the lab will use. The start date is October 1. Between October 1 and Feb 2010, this person will be writing protocols and be my primary resource for setting up the Histology and Gross areas of the lab. Requirements are: Experience is preferred Be the primary technical resource for histology and participate in the performance of routine and specialized technical histology functions as needed to provide high quality microscopic slides of tissue for the detection of disease, to include immunohistochemistry procedures and procurement and processing of pathology specimen material. QUALIFICATIONS: Education: Bachelor's degree and HTL (ASCP) certification preferred; OR has met the minimal education and experience requirements as outlined by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and has HTL (ASCP) certification. Experience: Five (5) years full-time experience as a certified Histotechnologist (HTL) in a clinical laboratory setting. Apply online at: http://www.catholicmedicalcenter.org/ Thanks, Steve Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org mailto:sfe...@cmc-nh.org ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] HTL and HT Thank all of you
Thank all of you who posted a response to my question about BS degree's and Histotechnologist. I especially appreciate the number of responses that came from seasoned HTL's. Because of your impute I was able to convince my hospital and craft a job description that leaves no one out from consideration for the position. Like may of you, I have been burned in the past by having the experience but not the required credentials to be paid properly for the work that I was doing. Unfortunately, this is not likely to change. The success that the USA has shown in matters of QA and QC accuracy have been attributed to our certification and accreditation processes. The increased sophistication of all aspects of Histotechnology and the advent of molecular testing provide an excellent forum for all of us to lobby our certification agencies to include or create additional certifications for Histotechnologist to take part in Cytogenetic, Molecular Pathology and the like. Sure it may require some extra training or college credit but that's exactly what every other field in clinical laboratory medicine has had to do. Every time I'm exposed to another aspect of special staining or IHC it becomes clearer and clearer that the scientific knowledge is there in our technologists. We just need to rally around that point and begin to have our State and National Histology Associations to present a unified front to ASCP, CAP and the like, for more recognition (and pay) based on the tasks that are already being done. We are getting ready to post a position for a Histotechnologist (HTL) position (Manchester, New Hampshire) that will be the point person in crafting the histology laboratory procedures and process for all aspects of the lab. The expected hire date will be in October. We will not be taking patient specimens until February of 2010 so this person will not be engaged in wet work for some time. As the year progresses we will add 2 HT or above positions and 2 Path Tech (Assistant) positions as well. Thanks again for all your help. Steve Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org mailto:sfe...@cmc-nh.org ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] What percent of HTL's do not have a BS degree?
I'm trying to find some solid statistics to justify being able to hire HTL (ASCP) candidates who do not have a Bachelor's degree. I am contending that requiring the candidate to have a Bachelor's degree will eliminate a substantial number of very qualified people. Does anyone have any solid references to support my position. Thanks, Steve Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org mailto:sfe...@cmc-nh.org ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] Floor materials
We're building a pathology lab and we're at project phase where flooring materials is being discussed. The initial choice of the architect is to use sheet vinyl flooring in the working areas of the lab (with the exception of the morgue). I'm not particularly impressed with the way vinyl flooring stands up to stains, solvents and wax. Do any of you have suggestions or experience in a type of flooring for the path lab that is superior to commercial vinyl? Thanks, Steve Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org mailto:sfe...@cmc-nh.org ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
[Histonet] Formalin and Solvent Recyclers
I'm looking for solvent and formalin recyclers that have a fairly small footprint and fairly straight forward ventilation requirements. Any suggestions or critiques of recyclers. Thanks, Steve Stephen A. Feher, MS, SCT (ASCP) Pathology Supervisor Catholic Medical Center 100 McGregor Street Manchester, NH 03102 603-663-6707 sfe...@cmc-nh.org mailto:sfe...@cmc-nh.org ___ Histonet mailing list Histonet@lists.utsouthwestern.edu http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
