[Histonet] Embedding paraffin blocks

[joelle weaver]

I have recently researched some workload and task analysis in the histo lab related to embedding. I found some good ideas are available to NSH members on their website. True statistics seem to be scarce, but I have seen in a few presentations on increasing standardization and efficiency citing numbers for embedding of 35-50 blocks/hour as an average. I think that I have posted a factor of 0.66-0.69/ block in the past, which correlates to 40/hour. I feel that that time needed for each specimen will vary with tissue type, wrapping methods( papers, sponges etc), and skill level. I think that there is more time involved with embedding skins, biopsies, and "complex" specimens, rather than large, flat pieces. 
Most labs I have seen, just figure the amount as a miniumum expectation to be an average based on a mix of easy and difficult specimens to embed. I agree that it is good to do some time studies on your own personnel and lab workflow, and then set a minimum with an emphasis of not exchanging speed for quality. I think that the task analysis must be correlated with technical proficiency and quality. However, I know that the numbers above are easy to meet with some experience and practice in any clinical/routine histology lab with paraffin embedding. Joelle Weaver HTL (ASCP)
 
 
> From: jwarren23 <@t> cinci.rr.com> To: > Date: Thu, 4 Dec 2008 13:12:44 -0500> Subject: [Histonet] Embedding paraffin blocks> > Is there an average number of blocks that a tech should be able to embed in a defined time period; such as so many blocks per hour? Also, would that number vary if the tech was embedding biopsies, skin or cones versus large tissue blocks, such as uterus? I have not seen this information, but I have heard widely ranging numbers. Thanks> > Jean in Cincinnati> _______________________________________________> Histonet mailing list> Histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu> http://lists.utsouthwestern.edu/mailman/listinfo/histonet
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