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Cytotechnologist

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What You Need to Know About Cytotechnologist

Career Description Stain, mount, and study cells to detect evidence of cancer, hormonal abnormalities, and other pathological conditions following established standards and practices.

List of Cytotechnologist Job Duties

  • Prepare cell samples by applying special staining techniques, such as chromosomal staining, to differentiate cells or cell components.
  • Submit slides with abnormal cell structures to pathologists for further examination.
  • Prepare and analyze samples, such as Papanicolaou (PAP) smear body fluids and fine needle aspirations (FNAs), to detect abnormal conditions.
  • Maintain effective laboratory operations by adhering to standards of specimen collection, preparation, or laboratory safety.
  • Examine cell samples to detect abnormalities in the color, shape, or size of cellular components and patterns.
  • Attend continuing education programs that address laboratory issues.

What Every Cytotechnologist Should Know

Below is a list of the skills most Cytotechnologists say are important on the job.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Types of Cytotechnologist

  • Cytology Laboratory Manager (Cytology Lab Manager)
  • Cytotechnologist Supervisor
  • Certified Cytotechnologist
  • Cytologist
  • Specimen Preparation Assistant

Are There Job Opportunities for Cytotechnologists?

In 2016, there was an estimated number of 171,400 jobs in the United States for Cytotechnologist. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 11.6% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 19,800 new jobs for Cytotechnologist by 2026. The BLS estimates 12,900 yearly job openings in this field.

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The states with the most job growth for Cytotechnologist are Utah, Colorado, and Arizona. Watch out if you plan on working in Rhode Island, Connecticut, or Illinois. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

Tools & Technologies Used by Cytotechnologists

Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Cytotechnologists:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Word
  • MEDITECH software
  • Laboratory information system LIS
  • Sunquest Information Systems Sunquest Laboratory
  • STARLIMS
  • CPSI CPSI System
  • Orchard Software Orchard Harvest LIS
  • Healthvision TDSynergy LIS
  • Comp Pro Med Polytech
  • Custom Software Systems StarLab
  • Elekta Impac Software IntelliLab
  • EpicLab Laboratory Information System
  • Fletcher-Flora Health Care Systems FFlex eSuite LIS
  • Fletcher-Flora Health Care Systems LabPak LIS
  • GE Healthcare Centricity Laboratory
  • HEX Laboratory Systems LAB/HEX
  • Clinical Software Solutions CLIN1 Suite
  • LabSoft LabNet
  • ClinLab LIS

How to Become a Cytotechnologist

Education needed to be a Cytotechnologist:

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How Long Does it Take to Become a Cytotechnologist?

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References:

Image Credit: Staff Sgt. Jerilyn Quintanilla via U.S. Air Force photo

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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