Spotlight on Unilabs pathology technicians: An interview with Katarina Huhmarniemi, Biomedical Analyst

Pathologist technicians play a crucial role supporting pathologists in diagnosing diseases, conducting research, and ensuring accurate patient outcomes. Their expertise is instrumental in providing quality healthcare services.

Throughout this series, we'll delve into the world of Unilabs pathologist technicians, uncovering the skills they bring, the challenges they face, and the impact they have on patient care. 

Episode 2: Katarina Huhmarniemi, Biomedical Analyst

Can you tell us a bit about your role as a pathology technician at Unilabs and what a typical day looks like for you?

We rotate through all positions in the lab, so each day may look different Most days, I work on routine tasks in the lab, and some days, I am supervising students or working with cytology, for which I have recently taken on responsibility.

Pathology technicians handle a wide range of laboratory tests and procedures. Could you walk us through some of the tasks you perform daily?

In the pathology lab, we handle samples daily, registering them in our lab data system. We embed samples dehydrated overnight in paraffin, prepare small specimens, cut sections of skin, gallbladders, lipomas, etc. We section blocks, stain slides using routine staining, special staining, and immunostaining protocols. After staining, we conduct quality control on the sliced slides before issuing them and scanning them. On the cytology side, we handle fluids from various parts of the body, preparing them to concentrate the cells on slides for staining.

What do you find most rewarding about your work in pathology, and are there any challenges you face in your role?

What I find most enjoyable in my work is the significant variation in daily tasks. We have a good atmosphere in the lab, collaborating to ensure smooth workflow. We receive a wide range of specimens, and it takes time to gain experience and encounter the different variations. We often seek advice from colleagues, which also makes the work interesting and challenging. There is always something new to learn.”

How do you ensure accuracy and precision in your laboratory work, especially when handling critical samples and tests?

We always handle only one sample at a time. There are several critical steps where we move samples from one container to another, such as embedding, preparing, and sectioning. It is especially important to work with one sample at a time and use the systems in our lab data system which is industry practice to ensure accuracy with samples.

Can you share any memorable experiences or cases from your time as a pathology technician that have left a lasting impact on you?

I particularly remember a patient who came to our aspiration reception for lymph node puncture in the neck. He was very open and talkative. He said it was his first contact with healthcare ever. After the puncture, the pathologist quickly determined that it was lymphoma. This has stuck with me, probably because I got a face behind the sample.

With advancements in technology and medicine, how do you see the role of pathology technicians evolving in the future?

Like in most professions, I believe new technology and AI will develop the tasks we do today from manual methods to mechanical ones. 

What advice would you give to aspiring pathology technicians who are considering a career in this field?

It takes a long time to gain real experience, but this is a significant part of what makes the work interesting.