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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Process tissue
   • Perform pre-use checks to ensure processor is fit for purpose
   • Select program and reagents for processing
   • Inspect processor reagents for deterioration and adequate volume, and report any items requiring replacement
   • Check processor for errors that occurred during processing sequence
2. Embed tissue
   • Check that volume of wax is sufficient for uninterrupted embedding of processor load
   • Check that temperature of wax is suitable for embedding process
   • Embed tissue in correct orientation
   • Apply procedures to prevent cross-contamination between tissues
   • Inspect blocks, reject and re-embed items that do not meet quality control standards
3. Stain sections
   • Select reagents specified in the method
   • Stain sections according to the method
   • Examine sections microscopically to ensure expected staining outcomes have been achieved
   • Mount sections to ensure long-term preservation
   • Attach permanent labels giving specimen details according to workplace traceability requirements
4. Select program and reagents for processing
5. Inspect processor reagents for deterioration and adequate volume, and report any items requiring replacement
6. Check processor for errors that occurred during processing sequence
   • Check that volume of wax is sufficient for uninterrupted embedding of processor load
7. Check that temperature of wax is suitable for embedding process
8. Embed tissue in correct orientation
9. Apply procedures to prevent cross-contamination between tissues
10. Inspect blocks, reject and re-embed items that do not meet quality control standards
11. Cut sections of tissue
    • Label required number of microscope slides in accordance with workplace traceability requirements
12. Check the flotation bath is ready and satisfactory for use
13. Cut representative sections at the required thickness observing prescribed safety measures
14. Float sections onto water bath to flatten tissues
15. Pick up sections onto microscope slides ensuring identification on slides matches that on the block
16. Apply procedures to prevent cross-contamination between samples
17. Compare the blocks and sections ensuring the tissue on slides matches that in the blocks
18. Inspect sections and reject any that do not meet quality control standards
    • Select reagents specified in the method
19. Stain sections according to the method
20. Examine sections microscopically to ensure expected staining outcomes have been achieved
21. Mount sections to ensure long-term preservation
22. Attach permanent labels giving specimen details according to workplace traceability requirements
23. Maintain a safe work environment
    • Ensure personal safety and minimise cross-contamination through the use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
24. Handle chemicals and sharps safely