06/01/77 C

Assists medical examiners, physicians, pathologists, and senior technicians in the performance of post-mortem examinations.

Positions in this class involve responsibility for preparing the necessary tools, equipment, and solutions for the preservation of tissue and for performing a major role in making incisions and removing organs. Skill is required in suturing incisions re-packing body cavities and tying off veins and arteries to conceal work and permit proper embalming. The work also includes responsibility for the handling and storage of human bodies and having contacts with funeral directors regarding the release of bodies for burial. The position may be required to employ preservation techniques on bodies, such as embalming, until final disposition of the body can be made.

Examples of duties characteristic of positions in this class:

1. Receives the human body for post-mortem examinations; records the necessary statistical data and keeps records of receipt and release of bodies; notifies the respective funeral director; and arranges for delivery of body and personal effects after release.
2. Under the supervision of a senior technician or pathologist, opens the body; assists in removing and weighing organs; holds instruments and organs in certain positions during post-mortem examinations; ties veins and arteries; re-packs body cavities; closes and sews body; and cleans body, table, and instruments upon completion.
3. Labels and preserves tissues for toxicological, histological, bacteriological, and serological studies.
4. Maintains autopsy room and equipment in sanitary condition; stores instruments in a clean and orderly condition; maintains an adequate supply of laundry, instruments, and equipment.

AUTOPSY TECHNICIAN A Page 2

 

5. May assist a toxicologist in receiving and shipping specimens to and from medically examiners and law enforcement officials; and assisting in the storage of evidence and specimens in an orderly arrangement.
6. May be required to preserve bodies by embalming or other methods as directed; cosmetic or restorative skills are not required.

Graduation from high school and one year of experience as an Autopsy Technician, morgue attendant or directly related work. Additional experience may be substituted for the high school education on an equivalent time basis.

Ability to interpret and follow instructions and to maintain harmonious relationships with hospital personnel, funeral directors, and relatives of descendants.