Job summary

Anatomical Pathology Technologist (APT) Band 5.

The Mortuary Service at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust currently deals with approximately 6000 deceased each year from across West Sussex, including St Richards Hospital, Chichester, Worthing Hospital, Princess Royal, Haywards Heath, and Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton.

We are looking for a Diploma Level 3 qualified APT to join our team who has substantial experience in Post Mortem work and at least some Home Office autopsies. Undertaking departmental audits, completing risk assessments, assisting with HTA compliance forms part of this role.

The role is for a substantive member of staff. All Post Mortems for the West Sussex area currently take place at Worthing Hospital; therefore, the role would be based there will be occasions when cover for Mortuary assistant duties will be required at one of the other sites previously mentioned.

The Mortuary IT system currently in use is Microsoft Excel based and therefore at least a basic understanding of this software is essential. General IT knowledge is also required, e.g., Word, PowerPoint, etc. Any experience with Quality IT Systems would be helpful (we currently use Q-Pulse) along with any Risk Assessment IT Systems (we currently use SHE).

The standard hours are 37.5 hours per week, working Monday to Friday 8am to 4.30pm with an hour for lunch (department closes 1-2pm).

There is a requirement to participate in the Out of Hours rota with the other APTs.

Main duties of the job

To assist in (or be responsible for in the absence of the Lead or Deputy APT), the provision of routine and complex Post Mortem procedures.

Provision of specialist technical assistance to Home Office Forensic Pathologists.

Use specialist skills to examine and remove the internal organs with minimal trauma, presenting the findings to the Pathologist.

To reconstruct and clean the deceased to a high standard following Post Mortem.

Arrange for the documentation and transport of specimens to laboratories as required / requested.

To undertake the sensitive storage and disposal of foetal and foetal-related tissues, according to HTA standards, Departmental and Trust policies.

To participate in the correct reception/release and care of the deceased patients and their property.

To participate in general cleaning and housekeeping duties to include specialist cleaning of the post mortem room and fridge compartments.

To assist in the management of stock control, stock monitoring and ordering as required, sign goods delivery notes, checking supplies deliveries and receipting.

The post-holder will be expected to participate in the departmental \on-call rota, relating to out-of-hours duties.

Transfer deceased between sites or other locations at the request of the Lead APT, their deputy or organise this out of hours whilst on call as Tier 1, using the Mortuary deceased transfer vehicle and equipment.

About us

Join us at UHSussex, every day is different, you can be the change, better never stops.

At UHSussex we're proud to be at the heart of the NHS. As one of the UK's largest acute Trusts, we're a leading example of the excellence, the ambition and the values that have embodied the NHS for over 70 years.

Improving lives: We are a vibrant and inclusive organisation, with hardworking, talented and dedicated individuals, who work together towards a common goal, to always put our Patient First. Our mission is summed up by our 'where better never stops' motto and no matter the role at UHSussex, you will play a part in driving us forwards and in improving the lives of patients across Sussex. We treat our patients and staff with the same compassion and empathy we expect for ourselves. We're here for them when they need us, and we go above and beyond to meet their needs. This can be seen in our wellbeing programme for staff which is extensive and designed to support you when you need it because we know that to look after others we must first look after ourselves.

As a university trust and a leader in healthcare research, we value learning, teaching and training so that we can be the best that we can be. From the moment you start with us and throughout your career we will help you to grow and develop. We hope that in choosing UHSussex you are choosing a long and happy career where you will be able to see the difference you make and feel valued for all that you do.

Job description

Job responsibilities

For further detail, please see the attached job description or contact the Interim Lead APT, Nicholas Cartmel on 01903 285018

Person Specification

Qualifications/Skills/Experience

Essential

• Certificate in Mortuary Hygiene and Technology of the Royal Institute of Public Health and Hygiene or Diploma Level 3 in Anatomical Pathology Technology.
• Full Driving licence (cat b)
• Proven history and experience of being a Diploma Level 3 qualified APT with specialist knowledge and skills with regards to: (a)Different methods to eviscerate bodies. (b)Reconstruction of \disrupted bodies. (c)Post Mortems on severely decomposed bodies. (d)Forensic post mortems Demonstrable ability to work to strict standards of quality and safety. Evidence of ongoing CPD (Continuing Professional Development). Demonstrable familiarity with Data Protection and Caldecott issues relating to the use and storage of patient information.
• Evidence of continued CPD
• Ability to deal with frequent exposure to highly unpleasant working conditions.
• Knowledge of the HTA code of practice A consent and B post mortem
• Demonstrable familiarity with Data Protection and Caldecott issues relating to the use and storage of patient information.
• Ability to Lone work frequently
• Demonstrable knowledge of the legal, religious and documentation requirements for all aspects of work undertaken within the Mortuary.
• Demonstrable knowledge of appropriate sensitive disposal of foetal tissues.
• Demonstrable ability to communicate in an empathic manner over sensitive issues with bereaved relatives.
• Proven ability to work as part of a team of APTs and Consultant Pathologists.

Desirable

• Registration with the Association of Anatomical Pathology Technologists (currently voluntary).
• Clean Full Driving licence
• Diploma in Mortuary Hygiene and Technology of the Public Health and Hygiene or Diploma level 4 in Anatomical Pathology Technology

Any attachments will be accessible after you click to apply.

279-W5325383-MAY23