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Anatomical Pathology Technologist
Do you have a genuine interest in science and how the human body works? Do you have a strong stomach for dealing with unusual sights and smells?
Do you have an interest in Pathology? Becoming an Anatomical Pathology Technologist could be the start of an exciting career for you.
Anatomical Pathology Technologist (APT) or mortuary technician support pathologists during post-mortem examinations.
Duties would include:
- passing instruments, such as scalpels to pathologists
- taking tissue samples
- weighing the organs as they are removed from a body
- taking samples for laboratory analysis
- recording the findings of a post-mortem examination
Once the post-mortem is complete it would be the duty of the APT to assist with the reconstruction and cleaning of the body ready for storage or release to the undertakers for burial or cremation. It is possible once experience is gained to assist forensic pathologists examining murder victims.
Other than post-mortem work, you would be responsible for the day-to-day running of the mortuary service for example:
- making sure that instruments are clean, sterile and ready for use
- receiving bodies into the mortuary at short notice
- placing the deceased into cold storage units
- keeping accurate records required by law
- tracking property and samples of the deceased
There is no formal training for a Anatomical Pathology Technologist as this training is carried out on the job and is gained through experience. It is however advised that to follow this career you will have a knowledge of science and a Matric with Science, Maths and English.
Useful Information
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Career Snapshot Anatomical Pathology Technologist |
In Demand
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Qualification Required |
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Work Outdoors |
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Maths Required |
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Science Required |
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This is a general guide - it is important to check admission requirements with the various training institutions first because entry requirements may vary.
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