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Histology and Cytology Basics for Laboratory Personnel
This introductory course provides clinical laboratory personnel with a practical overview of histology and cytology, two laboratory disciplines that support the identification and diagnosis of disease through the examination of cells and tissues.
Learners will review the differences between histology and cytology, basic specimen collection and handling principles, tissue processing, slide preparation, commonly used stains, microscopic examination, quality assurance, safety practices, and sources of pre-analytic and analytic error.
The course is designed for laboratory personnel who need foundational knowledge of histology and cytology but may not routinely perform specialized histotechnologist or cytotechnologist functions.
Course Objectives
- Define histology and cytology and explain their roles in the clinical laboratory.
- Differentiate between tissue-based histologic examination and cell-based cytologic examination.
- Identify common types of histology and cytology specimens.
- Describe the basic steps involved in tissue fixation, processing, embedding, sectioning, staining, and slide preparation.
- Explain basic cytology specimen collection and preparation techniques.
- Identify commonly used stains in histology and cytology and describe their general purposes.
- Recognize common normal cellular and tissue characteristics at an introductory level.
- Describe common artifacts and errors that may affect specimen quality.
- Explain the importance of specimen identification, preservation, documentation, and chain of custody.
- Describe basic quality-control and quality-assurance practices used in histology and cytology laboratories.
- Identify common laboratory safety risks associated with histology and cytology procedures.
- Explain the importance of appropriate communication and documentation when abnormal or inadequate specimens are identified.
Information
- Content Level: Intermediate
- Course Format: This course is offered as a self-paced distance learning format (reading-based online activity)
- System Requirements: This course is offered online. Internet connection required.
- Course Completion Information: To earn continuing education credit, professionals must register and pay the fee for the course. They must read the content and demonstrate understanding by earning a minimum score of 70 percent on testing materials. The certificate of completion will be able to be downloaded after the above is completed. Refunds will be granted upon request with the withdrawal of credit for the course. For questions, concerns, or to request special accommodations, please call 866-863-4225 or email ContactUs@BaysideCEU.com.
- CEBroker Course ID: 1391561
- Credit Hours: 1
- Last Updated: August 20, 2026