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Anatomical pathology technician
This page describes the work of anatomical pathology technicians, and includes information on entry requirements and training for the role.
Working as an anatomical pathology technician
An anatomical pathology technicians (APTs) role is to provide
assistance to a pathologist in conducting post mortems. This is a
vital area of work as understanding the causes of death enables
promotion of good health in others and in many cases, when death
is unexpected, the cause of death can have legal
implications.APTs liaise with a range of people including other medical staff, e.g. pathologists, doctors, police and, of course, the relatives of those who have died. APTs should be able to ensure that people in grief are dealt with sympathetically and given respect for their cultural and religious attitudes. Other responsibilities an APT may have include:
- record keeping
- maintaining the mortuary and post mortem room
- ensuring equipment and instruments are kept clean, sterile and ready for use
- taking samples for clinical examination
- keeping track of property
- ensuring legal documentation is dealt with correctly.
Entry requirements
There are no minimum qualifications for trainee pathology technicians although hospitals will often look for some evidence of knowledge in science, and a range of GCSEs may be beneficial.Training
Trainees start their training with a short period of watching, listening and asking, followed by direct involvement in work under the supervision of pathologists and technicians. During the training you will attend teaching sessions on a course designed by the Royal Society of Public Health (RSPH). The teaching will involve day release and some block time, totalling 40 hours at least. Topics will include:- anatomy and physiology
- post-mortem room techniques
- hygiene
- hazards and precautions
- legislation and codes of practice
- administration and documentation.
How to apply
Most NHS trusts now advertise on the NHS Jobs website, www.jobs.nhs.uk. Vacancies are also advertised in the local press and job centres. Additionally, you can contact the hospitals/trusts or the hospital mortuary manager for information on their opportunities.Further information
For more information about careers in anatomical pathology, please contact:Association of Anatomical Pathology Technologists UK (AAPTUK)
12 Coldbath Square
London
EC1R 5HL
Tel: 0207 2782151
Email: mail@aaptuk.org
Website: www.aaptuk.org
or
The Royal Society for Public Health
Market Towers
1 Nine Elms Lane
London
SW8 5NQ
Tel: 02031771600
Fax: 02031771601
Email: info@rsph.org.uk
Web: www.rsph.org.uk
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