I work in a pathology laboratory where we handle histology and cytology samples, mostly tissue samples. As a laboratory technician, I ensure that the samples go through the entire laboratory process. This work involves registering the samples, dissecting tissue samples, operating machines, and sectioning with a microtome. We prepare microscope slides from the samples, which are then given to the pathologist for examination. The pathologist reviews the samples under a microscope, and based on this pathology gives a diagnose.
The pathology laboratory differs from other laboratories in that technological changes have not been as significant as in other fields. The work also involves a lot of so-called manual laboratory tasks, meaning not everything is automated or handled by machines.
Although we work with machines and technology, we do not use social media tools, as they are not necessary for our core tasks. We use patient information systems (Qpati and Optomed) and Microsoft tools for communication. We have meetings on Teams, as some of our colleagues work remotely. We manage our emails through Outlook and use SharePoint for record-keeping. While we don’t use actual social media in our work, we do have a WhatsApp group with colleagues, although we don’t discuss work assignments there.
Additionally, we have started incorporating digital pathology. This allows other hospitals to send us samples in digital format. I haven’t personally used the software for this, as our technicians are not required to. The pathologist reviews these digital samples on their computer screen. This method is faster and more efficient, because samples do not need to be sent by post mail. On the other hand it demands high-quality screens and powerful software to function properly.
ChatGPT
We could use ChatGPT to gather details and information about laboratory processes. It could also help us review and update our work instructions, which are revised annually. Additionally, we could use it to find information about chemicals and how to handle them. ChatGPT can be a useful educational tool, as it has a vast knowledge of pathology. It’s a quick way to get information and answers to specific questions, but it’s important to remain critical of the source.
YouTube
In the lab, we occasionally receive new equipment and machines. When implementing these, we could check the manufacturer’s instructional videos for guidance on their use. We could also watch educational lectures on diseases or techniques. Since we are a private laboratory, we could create commercial videos for YouTube to attract new customers. However, I am not sure how effective this approach would be in reaching customers.
Apps for Pathology
I found an app called “Pathology App” online, which I haven’t used yet, but it seems interesting. It provides new information about diseases and different specializations. There’s also a “Pathology Dictionary Pro” app, which would be useful for looking up pathology terms. There are many technical terms in our field, and it’s impossible to remember them all. This app could help deepen our knowledge – while technicians don’t need to know every term, understanding them can make our work more interesting and rewarding.
Digital Pathology
As I mentioned earlier, digital pathology involves acquiring, managing, sharing, and interpreting pathology data in a digital format. Digital slides are created by scanning glass slides to provide high-resolution images that can be viewed on a computer or mobile device. In our private lab, digital pathology isn’t as widely used as in some other labs, but I believe it will grow. It allows pathologists to quickly share knowledge and confirm diagnoses faster, which is an amazing development. However, it does require powerful computers to manage the software and display the high-resolution images properly.
Canva
In my personal life, I use Canva for various tasks, such as searching for images and creating presentations. I noticed that we could also use Canva in our workplace. When we attend training sessions, we sometimes share what we’ve learned with colleagues, and creating illustrative PowerPoint presentations would be a great way to do this. However, we often don’t have time for this, but it’s an idea that could be useful. I’ve found Canva to be an easy-to-use and versatile tool.
Self-Evaluation
In reflecting on this task, I’ve realized that although we use a lot of machines and technology in our workplace, we don’t fully take advantage of digital environments and apps. I’ve been considering what kind of apps could help improve our work or assist our patients and customers. Since our lab is in the private sector, we could also use social media for marketing, but I’m not sure how effective it would be for our technicians’ daily tasks.
Social media has its benefits, but it also presents challenges for employers. It forces employers to continually update their knowledge. Additionally, there are many different software systems and information platforms in workplaces, which can lead to “multitasking”. I also find it odd that there are so many incompatible patient information systems in our country.
It was interesting to read other students’ blogs, as we come from different fields. Some software and apps were entirely new to me. It’s valuable to learn about how other workplaces operate. I believe that digitalization requires us to work together and share solutions. No one should be left behind in the digitalization, and we must also be mindful of different age groups – some employees are not as familiar with digital devices and cannot be expected to adapt as quickly.