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Cytotechnologist

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All About Cytotechnologists

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

Daily Life Of a Cytotechnologist

  • Prepare cell samples by applying special staining techniques, such as chromosomal staining, to differentiate cells or cell components.
  • Assist pathologists or other physicians to collect cell samples by fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy or other method.
  • Examine cell samples to detect abnormalities in the color, shape, or size of cellular components and patterns.
  • Prepare and analyze samples, such as Papanicolaou (PAP) smear body fluids and fine needle aspirations (FNAs), to detect abnormal conditions.
  • Attend continuing education programs that address laboratory issues.
  • Document specimens by verifying patients’ and specimens’ information.

Cytotechnologist Needed Skills

Cytotechnologists state the following job skills are important in their day-to-day work.

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

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

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.

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

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

Other Cytotechnologist Job Titles

  • Certified Cytotechnologist
  • Cytology Manager
  • Cytopathology Technologist
  • Cytology Supervisor
  • Cytotechnologist Supervisor

Cytotechnologist Job Outlook

There were about 171,400 jobs for Cytotechnologist in 2016 (in the United States). 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. There will be an estimated 12,900 positions for Cytotechnologist per year.

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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.

What Tools & Technology do Cytotechnologists Use?

Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Cytotechnologists may use on a daily basis:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Word
  • MEDITECH software
  • Laboratory information system LIS
  • CPSI CPSI System
  • Orchard Software Orchard Harvest LIS
  • STARLIMS
  • Sunquest Information Systems Sunquest Laboratory
  • Antek HealthWare LabDAQ
  • Aspyra CyberLAB
  • CSS CLS-2000
  • Cerner Millennium PathNet
  • ClinLab LIS
  • Clinical Software Solutions CLIN1 Suite
  • 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

How do I Become a Cytotechnologist?

Are there Cytotechnologists education requirements?

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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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