Reviewed: 18 July 2005

What is the role of a Cytotechnologist?

The cytotechnologist plays an important role as a health care professional.  Depending on the laboratory, the cytotechnologist is chiefly responsible for the microscopic examination of slides prepared from each specimen and may also be responsible for specimen collection, preparation and staining and record keeping.  Depending on the specimen type, the patient's medical history and the technologist's interpretation, the results may be reported by the technologist or the microscopic slides may be referred to the pathologist for interpretation.

The work is interesting and challenging.  A cytotechnologist must be able to concentrate for long periods of time while examining slides with the microscope.  The cytotechnologist must appreciate and accept responsibility for the impact of their work on patient care.

The health hazards to people working in this field are minimal.  However, working in the laboratory environment and with biological material carries some risk.  All cytotechnologists are trained in laboratory safety and the appropriate handling of all types of specimens.