A professional who prepares bodies, specimens of human organs, and morgue room to assist pathologist in postmortem examinations. Respnsibilities include:

• Places body in compartment tray of refrigerator or on autopsy table, using portable hoist and stretcher.
• Lays out surgical instruments and laboratory supplies for postmortem examinations.
• Washes table, storage trays, and instruments, sharpens knives, and replaces soiled linens.
• Records identifying information for morgue file.
• Releases body to authorized person.
• May close post mortem incisions, using surgical needle and cord.
• May fill cranium with plaster.
• May feed, water, and clean quarters for animals used in medical research.
• May prepare preserving solutions according to formulas.
• May preserve specimens and stain slides.
• May photograph specimens.