In the Spotlight: Pharmacy Technicians
A pharmacy technician's duties resemble those of the pharmacist. Pharmacy technicians help the licensed pharmacist distribute medication to patients. Technicians perform basic duties to support the pharmacist. The majority of pharmacy technicians work in retail pharmacies, but they are also employed in acute care settings.
In retail environments, pharmacy technicians provide the first contact with the customers. Technicians must be prepared to verify all information on prescriptions from customers. Often technicians receive electronic prescriptions from physicians' offices and must be able to decipher the prescription and again verify the information. Pharmacy technicians often perform the same tasks as pharmacists but are being observed while performing those tasks. Technicians can select the medication, measure the required dosage, and label and distribute the medication to the customer.
In a hospital environment, pharmacy technicians have increased responsibilities. Technicians often read patients' charts and administer medications accordingly. They are responsible for stocking the patients' medications and recording all dosages in the charts. The supervising pharmacist always checks the technician's medications for accuracy.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers for pharmacy technicians are growing and are projected to grow as the population ages and develops more chronic health conditions needing medication.
Pharmacy technicians usually receive on-the-job training from pharmacist mentors. Formal training is preferred for pharmacy technicians and includes medical and pharmaceutical techniques, pharmacy law and ethics. Technicians must learn the appropriate uses for medications and the possible side effects.
Career Advancement Opportunities are Available
Inova Health System offers a variety of opportunities for new graduates and
experienced pharmacy technicians. For more information or to apply online, click here.
More information:
Related Articles
