[Histonet] Everyone is a critic

[Terri Braud]

I wholehearted agree with Linda.  Constructive criticism is one thing.  Picking apart the book, such as the title, is petty (and ignores the fact that "Hack" is also defined as: a strategy or technique for managing one's time or activities more efficiently; also to "cope").  Also, the criticism of not being comprehensive is a cheap shot.   I see very few of these helpful hints in any of the myriad of Histotechnology reference books on my shelf.   If a block isn't correctly grossed, absolutely the grossing should be addressed, but in the meantime, what are you going to do with the problem block (patient) that sits before you. It must be nice to work in 
To the Author:  From those of us Histotechnicians who have thoroughly enjoyed this book, please know that we appreciated the effort and the results.  Sincerely, Terri

Terri L. Braud, HT(ASCP)
Anatomic Pathology Supervisor
Laboratory
Holy Redeemer Hospital
1648 Huntingdon Pike
Meadowbrook, PA 19046
ph: 215-938-3689
fax: 215-938-3874

I really take exception to those finding fault with this book!  Maybe another word other than hack would have made some people feel better but we all know the intent.  Stating that "many of the fixes or secrets described are because some hack failed to do her/his job at an earlier step in the process" is totally incorrect.  Very few of the "hacks" has anything to do with someone failing to do their job.  I think this books intent was to help new people in the field of histology.  It has been a great form of dialog between our new tech and the older techs.  It has served a very good purpose.
Linda Blazek HT (ASCP)
Pathology Lab Manager
GI Pathology of Dayton
Digestive Specialists, Inc