Top 31 Pathology Technician Interview Questions and Answers [Updated 2025]
Andre Mendes
•
March 30, 2025
Preparing for a pathology technician interview can be daunting, but the right preparation makes all the difference. This blog post compiles the most common interview questions for the pathology technician role, providing insightful example answers and practical tips to help you respond effectively. Dive in to boost your confidence and ensure you’re ready to showcase your expertise and secure that job offer.
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List of Pathology Technician Interview Questions
Situational Interview Questions
If you received a specimen that was contaminated, what immediate actions would you take to address the situation?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the contamination and determine the type of hazard involved
- 2
Isolate the contaminated specimen to prevent further exposure
- 3
Follow protocol to report the contamination to a supervisor immediately
- 4
Document the incident, including the specimen details and contamination type
- 5
Disinfect any surfaces or tools that came into contact with the specimen
Example Answers
First, I would assess the type of contamination to understand the risk. Then, I would isolate the specimen and notify my supervisor. After that, I would document all relevant details and disinfect any surfaces involved.
Imagine you are unsure about a specimen's diagnosis after initial examination. What steps would you take to further investigate?
How to Answer
- 1
Review the specimen's clinical history and any available previous slides.
- 2
Consult with a more experienced colleague or pathologist for their insights.
- 3
Use additional diagnostic tools like immunohistochemistry or molecular testing.
- 4
Document your findings and suspicions clearly for further evaluation.
- 5
Follow up on the specimen as needed to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Example Answers
I would start by reviewing the patient's clinical history and any previous diagnostic results. Then, I would seek a second opinion from a more experienced colleague to discuss my observations and consider additional tests, such as immunohistochemistry, to clarify the diagnosis.
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If a patient inquired about their pathology report and seemed anxious, how would you handle that conversation?
How to Answer
- 1
Listen actively to the patient's concerns and validate their feelings.
- 2
Provide clear and simple explanations about the report results.
- 3
Encourage the patient to ask questions and express any worries they have.
- 4
Maintain a calm and reassuring demeanor throughout the conversation.
- 5
If necessary, offer to connect them with a physician for more detailed information.
Example Answers
I would first listen to the patient's concerns and reassure them that it's okay to feel anxious. I would then explain the report in straightforward terms and encourage them to ask any questions they might have.
If you were assigned to a new team and noticed that there were communication issues, how would you address them?
How to Answer
- 1
Observe and identify specific communication breakdowns
- 2
Engage team members in one-on-one conversations
- 3
Propose regular team meetings for open discussions
- 4
Suggest using collaborative tools for better communication
- 5
Encourage feedback and create a safe environment for sharing concerns
Example Answers
I would first observe the team's interactions to pinpoint where the communication issues lie. Then, I'd talk to team members individually to understand their perspectives. Finally, I would suggest regular team meetings to foster open dialogue and address any misunderstandings.
What would you do if you noticed a colleague not following safety protocols in the lab?
How to Answer
- 1
Stay calm and assess the situation before reacting.
- 2
Consider discussing the issue directly with your colleague in a private setting.
- 3
If necessary, inform your supervisor or the appropriate authority.
- 4
Document the incident if it poses a significant risk to safety.
- 5
Emphasize the importance of teamwork and lab safety.
Example Answers
I would first calmly talk to my colleague privately to remind them about the safety protocols, as they might not have realized they were not following them.
If a piece of critical laboratory equipment malfunctioned during peak hours, what steps would you take to handle the situation?
How to Answer
- 1
Stay calm and assess the situation quickly
- 2
Notify your supervisor and relevant staff immediately
- 3
Identify a temporary solution or alternative equipment if possible
- 4
Communicate with your team to manage workload and expectations
- 5
Document the incident for future reference and improvement
Example Answers
I would first assess the malfunction and then notify my supervisor to ensure they are aware. After that, I would check if there is an alternative piece of equipment we could use temporarily to avoid disruption.
What would you do if you discovered that a colleague was falsifying test results?
How to Answer
- 1
Remain calm and avoid confrontation with the colleague.
- 2
Document your findings carefully, noting specific instances of the falsification.
- 3
Report the issue to your supervisor or the appropriate authority immediately.
- 4
Follow your organization's protocol for addressing ethical concerns.
- 5
Maintain confidentiality and avoid discussing the issue with others.
Example Answers
I would first document any specific instances of the falsification I observed, and then report it to my supervisor, adhering to company protocol.
How would you respond to a sudden change in laboratory protocols or procedures due to new regulations?
How to Answer
- 1
Stay calm and composed when changes occur
- 2
Quickly familiarize yourself with the new regulations and protocols
- 3
Communicate with your team about the changes and ask for clarification if needed
- 4
Implement changes as soon as possible while ensuring compliance
- 5
Document the changes and how you adapted to them for future reference
Example Answers
In response to sudden changes in laboratory protocols, I would first take a moment to gather my thoughts and ensure I stay calm. Then, I'd review the new protocols to fully understand the requirements. I would communicate with my team to discuss any questions we have and ensure everyone is on the same page. Implementing the changes promptly while maintaining compliance is crucial, and I would document everything to refer back to it later.
How would you handle a situation where the lab is overwhelmed with samples and your colleague is unavailable to assist?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess the urgency of the samples and prioritize accordingly
- 2
Communicate with the team to organize workflow and delegate tasks if possible
- 3
Stay focused on one task at a time to maintain quality
- 4
Utilize any available technology or tools to manage samples more efficiently
- 5
Remain calm and positive to encourage a good working environment
Example Answers
In an overwhelming situation, I would first assess which samples are most urgent and prioritize them. Then, I would communicate with any available team members to see if tasks can be delegated. Staying organized is key, so I would manage my time effectively to ensure each sample is processed accurately.
You receive a specimen that requires urgent testing, but it is incomplete. What actions would you take?
How to Answer
- 1
Assess what information or materials are missing from the specimen
- 2
Contact the person who submitted the specimen to clarify details
- 3
Determine if any preliminary testing can be done with the available sample
- 4
Document the situation and any steps taken for traceability
- 5
Follow laboratory protocols for handling incomplete specimens
Example Answers
I would first check the submission details to identify what is missing and then reach out to the submitting physician to request the necessary information or materials. If partial testing can be conducted safely, I would begin that while waiting for the complete specimen.
Don't Just Read Pathology Technician Questions - Practice Answering Them!
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If you had to choose between two conflicting priorities in your workload, how would you determine which task to complete first?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify the deadlines for each task
- 2
Consider the impact of each task on the overall workflow
- 3
Communicate with relevant stakeholders if needed
- 4
Assess which task aligns more with urgent patient care needs
- 5
Prioritize tasks based on available resources and information
Example Answers
I would first check the deadlines for both tasks and see which one is due soonest. Then, I would evaluate the impact of each task on patient care. If one task directly affects a patient's diagnosis or treatment, I would prioritize that task.
How would you respond to constructive criticism from a supervisor about your lab work?
How to Answer
- 1
Stay calm and listen carefully to the feedback.
- 2
Acknowledge the criticism without being defensive.
- 3
Ask clarifying questions if needed to fully understand the points.
- 4
Express appreciation for the feedback and indicate your willingness to improve.
- 5
Detail how you plan to implement the suggestions in future work.
Example Answers
I listen carefully and make sure I understand the feedback. I appreciate my supervisor's input because it helps me learn and improve my lab skills. I take notes and ask questions to clarify anything I'm unsure about. I then apply this feedback to my next project to enhance my performance.
Technical Interview Questions
Describe your experience with automated laboratory instruments. How do you troubleshoot common issues with them?
How to Answer
- 1
Start by mentioning specific instruments you have used.
- 2
Explain your familiarity with the operation and maintenance of these instruments.
- 3
Describe a specific troubleshooting situation you faced.
- 4
Highlight the outcome of your troubleshooting efforts.
- 5
End with how you ensure minimal downtime for the lab.
Example Answers
In my previous role, I worked extensively with the Sysmex XN-9000 hematology analyzer. When I encountered a calibration error, I reviewed the user manual and performed a step-by-step recalibration process. As a result, the instrument was back in service within an hour, allowing for continued testing.
What types of specimen preparation techniques have you used in your previous roles?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify specific techniques you are familiar with, such as tissue processing or slide preparation.
- 2
Mention any equipment or instruments you've used in preparation.
- 3
Highlight your understanding of safety and quality control in specimen preparation.
- 4
Provide examples that demonstrate your hands-on experience with these techniques.
- 5
Be ready to explain how your preparation methods impact diagnostic accuracy.
Example Answers
In my previous role, I regularly performed tissue fixation and embedding techniques using paraffin. I also have experience with microtomy for creating thin sections for microscopy.
Don't Just Read Pathology Technician Questions - Practice Answering Them!
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What is your experience with preparing and reviewing pathology reports?
How to Answer
- 1
Highlight specific experiences in preparing pathology reports.
- 2
Mention any software or tools you used in the process.
- 3
Discuss your attention to detail and accuracy in reporting.
- 4
Explain how you review reports for clarity and correctness.
- 5
Provide an example of a challenging case you handled.
Example Answers
I have worked in a laboratory for two years, where I prepared pathology reports using LabWare. I ensure accuracy by cross-referencing findings with previous reports and verifying details with pathologists when necessary.
What do you consider to be the most important knowledge areas for a Pathology Technician and why?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify key areas of pathology such as histology, cytology, and laboratory techniques.
- 2
Explain the relevance of laboratory safety and quality control in the role.
- 3
Mention the importance of communication skills for collaboration with pathologists and other staff.
- 4
Highlight the significance of staying updated with advancements in pathology and technology.
- 5
Provide specific examples of how these knowledge areas apply in everyday tasks.
Example Answers
I believe the most important knowledge areas for a Pathology Technician are histology and cytology, as they are fundamental to preparing and analyzing tissue samples. Additionally, understanding laboratory safety protocols is crucial to ensure a safe working environment. Effective communication with pathologists facilitates accurate diagnoses and improves patient outcomes.
What types of microscopes are you familiar with, and what are the key factors you consider when preparing a specimen for microscopic examination?
How to Answer
- 1
List specific types of microscopes you have used, such as light, electron, or fluorescent microscopes.
- 2
Explain your familiarity with each type and any relevant techniques you have employed.
- 3
Discuss key preparation factors like specimen fixation, staining methods, and section thickness.
- 4
Mention the importance of cleanliness and avoiding contamination during specimen handling.
- 5
Conclude with how you ensure clarity and quality in the prepared specimens for accurate diagnosis.
Example Answers
I am familiar with light microscopes, electron microscopes, and fluorescence microscopes. When preparing a specimen, I focus on proper fixation techniques, applying appropriate stains, and ensuring that sections are thin enough for effective light passage. I also clean the slides thoroughly to avoid contamination, which ensures clear results.
What protocols do you follow for the proper handling and storage of biological specimens?
How to Answer
- 1
Explain the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- 2
Mention specific protocols for labeling and documentation
- 3
Discuss temperature and environmental controls for storage
- 4
Include procedures for transportation of specimens
- 5
Highlight compliance with safety regulations and policies
Example Answers
I always wear appropriate PPE such as gloves and lab coats when handling specimens. I ensure that all specimens are clearly labeled and logged in our database to avoid any mix-ups. For storage, I maintain the required temperature and humidity levels based on the specimen type.
Can you explain the process and purpose of common staining techniques used in pathology?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify key staining techniques like H&E, Gram stain, and special stains.
- 2
Briefly describe the process of preparing slides for each staining method.
- 3
Explain the specific purposes and what components are highlighted by each stain.
- 4
Use clear terminology to describe cellular structures targeted by the stains.
- 5
Show understanding of how staining aids in diagnosing diseases.
Example Answers
One common staining technique is Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining. The process involves fixing the tissue, embedding it in paraffin, and slicing it into thin sections. Hematoxylin stains nuclei blue, while eosin stains the cytoplasm pink. This technique is primarily used to differentiate cellular components and identify tissue architecture, which helps in diagnosing various conditions.
Which laboratory equipment are you proficient in using, and can you describe how you maintain this equipment?
How to Answer
- 1
List specific laboratory equipment relevant to pathology such as microscopes, centrifuges, and analyzers.
- 2
Explain your experience level with each piece of equipment and any particular techniques you are skilled in.
- 3
Describe routine maintenance practices you follow to ensure equipment reliability.
- 4
Mention any specific protocols or guidelines you adhere to when maintaining equipment.
- 5
Highlight any experience you have with troubleshooting equipment issues.
Example Answers
I am proficient in using light microscopes, centrifuges, and pathology analyzers. I perform weekly cleaning of the microscopes and calibrate the analyzers monthly according to manufacturer guidelines to ensure optimal performance.
How do you ensure quality and accuracy in the results of your pathology tests?
How to Answer
- 1
Follow standard operating procedures diligently
- 2
Use validated techniques and follow protocols strictly
- 3
Perform regular calibration and maintenance of equipment
- 4
Participate in quality control and assurance programs
- 5
Double-check results through peer review or consult with colleagues
Example Answers
I ensure quality by strictly adhering to standard operating procedures and using validated testing methods. I also regularly calibrate our equipment and participate in quality assurance programs to maintain high accuracy.
What methods do you use for documentation and record-keeping in the pathology lab?
How to Answer
- 1
Emphasize electronic record-keeping systems you are familiar with
- 2
Mention adherence to regulations like HIPAA
- 3
Highlight the importance of accuracy and timeliness
- 4
Share examples of tracking samples and results
- 5
Discuss how you ensure data integrity and security
Example Answers
I use a Lab Information Management System to document all samples, ensuring compliance with HIPAA. I also regularly double-check entries to maintain accuracy and track results promptly.
Don't Just Read Pathology Technician Questions - Practice Answering Them!
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Behavioral Interview Questions
Describe a time when you had to maintain confidentiality in your work. Why is this important in pathology?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a specific instance where you had to protect sensitive information.
- 2
Explain the steps you took to ensure confidentiality.
- 3
Discuss the implications of breaches in confidentiality in your field.
- 4
Relate the principle of patient trust to your actions.
- 5
Emphasize how confidentiality is critical to professional standards.
Example Answers
In my previous role, I handled patient biopsy results. I made sure to store all samples and reports securely and only discussed findings with authorized personnel. Maintaining confidentiality is crucial in pathology as it builds patient trust and ensures compliance with legal standards.
Don't Just Read Pathology Technician Questions - Practice Answering Them!
Reading helps, but actual practice is what gets you hired. Our AI feedback system helps you improve your Pathology Technician interview answers in real-time.
Personalized feedback
Unlimited practice
Used by hundreds of successful candidates
Tell me about a time when you had to learn a new technique or procedure quickly. How did you approach the learning process?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a specific technique you learned quickly.
- 2
Explain the context or reason for the urgency in learning.
- 3
Describe the resources you used, such as manuals or colleagues.
- 4
Mention any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
- 5
Conclude with what you learned from the experience.
Example Answers
In my previous role, I quickly learned how to use a new cytology machine when our lab received it. The lab was short-staffed, so I attended a training session and used the manual to practice on my own. I faced initial difficulty with the software but asked a colleague for tips, which helped me overcome the challenge. This experience taught me the importance of teamwork in learning.
Can you describe a time when you had to work closely with a pathologist or other healthcare professionals? How did you ensure effective collaboration?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific example that highlights teamwork.
- 2
Emphasize communication methods you used.
- 3
Mention any challenges faced and how you overcame them.
- 4
Discuss the outcome of the collaboration and its impact.
- 5
Reflect on what you learned from the experience.
Example Answers
In my previous role, I worked closely with a pathologist to prepare samples for analysis. We had daily meetings to discuss cases, which ensured that we were aligned. One challenge we faced was a backlog of samples, but by prioritizing urgent cases together, we managed to meet deadlines and improve turnaround time. This experience taught me the importance of open communication in a fast-paced environment.
Give an example of a challenging case you encountered. How did you handle the situation and what was the outcome?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a specific case that was truly challenging.
- 2
Clearly outline the problem or difficulty you faced.
- 3
Explain the steps you took to address the issue.
- 4
Highlight the skills or techniques you used.
- 5
Conclude with a positive outcome or lesson learned.
Example Answers
In a recent case, we received a specimen with poor fixation. I assessed the situation and decided to use additional processing techniques. By optimizing the staining protocols and consulting with my supervisor, we achieved satisfactory results, which helped in accurate diagnosis.
Tell me about a time when you made an error in your work. How did you rectify it and what did you learn from the experience?
How to Answer
- 1
Choose a real error that shows accountability.
- 2
Explain how you noticed the error or it was pointed out to you.
- 3
Describe the steps you took to correct the error.
- 4
Discuss what you learned and how you applied it in the future.
- 5
Keep it concise and focused on your personal growth.
Example Answers
In my previous role, I mislabeled a sample which could have led to incorrect results. I realized the mistake during a routine check. I immediately notified my supervisor, corrected the labels, and double-checked all samples. I learned the importance of meticulous labeling and implemented a checklist to ensure accuracy in future tasks.
Describe a situation where you had multiple tasks to complete. How did you prioritize your work to meet deadlines?
How to Answer
- 1
Identify the tasks you had and their deadlines.
- 2
Assess the urgency and importance of each task.
- 3
Communicate any conflicts or needs for support to your supervisor.
- 4
Use a method like a priority matrix or to-do list.
- 5
Reflect on the outcome and what you learned from the experience.
Example Answers
In my previous role, I had to process samples, prepare reports, and maintain equipment all due on the same day. I made a list, noting that processing samples was the most urgent as it affected the following tasks. I completed that first, then worked on the reports while waiting for equipment maintenance. This helped me meet all deadlines successfully.
Have you ever disagreed with a colleague about a diagnosis or procedure? How did you resolve that disagreement?
How to Answer
- 1
Stay calm and professional when discussing the disagreement
- 2
Listen actively to your colleague's perspective and rationale
- 3
Present your viewpoint clearly, backing it with evidence or protocols
- 4
Suggest a collaborative approach, such as consulting a supervisor or additional resources
- 5
Focus on patient welfare and the goal of accurate diagnosis
Example Answers
In a previous role, I disagreed with a colleague about the necessity of a specific stain for a biopsy. I listened to their reasoning and explained my perspective. We both referred to the lab protocols together and decided to consult our supervisor to ensure the best approach for the patient.
Explain how you have communicated complex technical information to non-technical colleagues or clients in the past.
How to Answer
- 1
Identify a specific instance where you had to explain technical information.
- 2
Use clear and simple language, avoiding jargon.
- 3
Relate the technical information to the audience's everyday experiences.
- 4
Be prepared to answer questions and invite feedback to ensure understanding.
- 5
Consider using visual aids or analogies to enhance comprehension.
Example Answers
In my previous role, I explained the importance of a new laboratory protocol to nurses. I avoided technical terms and used analogies comparing the protocol to familiar procedures in their workflow. This made it easier for them to grasp the concept and its significance.
Pathology Technician Position Details
Recommended Job Boards
ASCP Career Center
www.ascp.org/careers-fellowships/find-a-jobCareerBuilder
www.careerbuilder.com/jobs/pathology-technicianZipRecruiter
www.ziprecruiter.com/Jobs/Pathology-Technician/These job boards are ranked by relevance for this position.
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- Catheterization Laboratory Technician
- Neurology Technician
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