Autopsy Assistant

Job Title: Autopsy Assistant

Location: Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA

Key Responsibilities:

• Work under the technical and administrative direction of a pathologist to begin autopsy procedures.
• Ensure correct identification of the deceased (e.g., ID wristband).
• Lay out standard autopsy instruments and apparel for the pathologist.
• Label specimen jars, fill formalin containers, and prepare tissue cassettes.
• Record basic details such as sex, ethnicity, height, weight, teeth, hair, eye color, and any visible scars or anomalies.
• Assist with or perform evisceration using methods such as Block, Rokitansky, or Virchow techniques.
• Record organ weights, draw blood, and collect other body fluids as requested.
• Sew, clean, and re-wrap the cadaver in a body bag.
• Clean and sanitize the autopsy table, instruments, and area after each procedure, ensuring established standards of sanitation, safety, and privacy are met.

Qualifications:

• Experience in a medical or mortuary setting is preferred.
• Ability to follow strict safety and sanitation protocols.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality.
• Physical ability to perform the tasks required during autopsies, including lifting and standing for extended periods.