NSH Poster Podcast: P36 (2024)

Study tools for the histotechnologist (HTL) Histotechnician (HT) certification exam- Amber Moser1, BS, Hannah Benton1, BS, Taylor Wallace1, BS, and Elizabeth A. Chlipala1, BS, HTL(ASCP)QIHC Premier Labs, Longmont, CO

Histology laboratories have seen an increase in workplace shortages since the COVID-19 pandemic and an increase in noncertified applicants to fill open positions. The traditional route for histology certification is the completion of a histology education series with an accredited institution; however, there are many other routes to qualify for certification. With declines in histology program graduate numbers, and the change in work force after the COVID-19 pandemic, it is expected that nontechnical positions will continue to be filled by noncertified individuals. This may lead to an increase in alternative routes of certification, specifically through laboratory experience. These tools provide additional resources for individuals studying for the HT/HTL certification exams. They are catered to individuals without access to an accredited educational program. Information has been organized in ways that focus on areas that may be particularly difficult, information heavy or exam relevant. They utilize multiple learning modalities, specifically written, spoken, and visual information retrieval methods, with opportunities for auditory and group learning. They are also intended to be cost effective. Materials include laminated study templates, laminated scratch paper, flashcards, a slideshow for visual tissue assessment, and a general study topic list. Questions are both simple and complex, and representative of exam questions. It should be noted, however, that this is not a comprehensive study guide and is intended to be used in addition to an online study program or exam preparation course and textbook resources. These tools are incomplete guides which can be added to and personalized.