The posting
Pharmacy technicians assist pharmacists in preparing and distributing drugs, maintaining the drug inventory and maintenance of records. Pharmacy technicians work only under the supervision of a registered pharmacist. They do not perform duties that can legally be performed only by a registered pharmacist. Additionally, the Certified Pharmacy Technician will be responsible for conducting medication history assessments, interviewing patients and families to compile an accurate medication list, verifying allergy information, and consulting with community pharmacies, physicians, or healthcare facilities when necessary. The technician will work closely with the supervising pharmacist and other healthcare teams to ensure the completion of medication histories in a timely manner.
Position Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent. College courses desirable but not required. Valid state pharmacy technician registration. Certification from Pharmacy Technician Certification Board or proof that certification is in progress.
- Hospital Pharmacy technician work experienced preferred. Experience in health-care environment preferred.
- Meditech Pharmacy Module computer system, medication pre-packing equipment, laminar airflow hood, IV fluid pumps, printers, FAX multi-lined telephones, calculator, copier, automated dispensing systems (Pyxis, Omnicell, etc.), controlled substance manager and other pharmacy specific equipment. Typing skills and personal computer skills.
- Work takes place primarily inside hospital pharmacy with numerous trips to various medication storage areas in the hospital. Must be able to work effectively in a high stress work environment.
- Ability to view and accurately enter data at a computer terminal for prolonged periods of time and to communicate effectively and professionally, both orally and in writing. Position requires the ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday, as well as to stoop, bend, reach, and perform repetitive movements in support of medication distribution, inventory management, and maintenance of departmental equipment and supplies. Must be able to push and maneuver wheeled carts weighing up to 200 pounds over varying distances to nursing units and other clinical areas, and to lift, carry, and move items weighing up to 20 pounds independently.
- Position also requires the ability to perform repetitive, detail-oriented tasks in a sterile or controlled environment for extended periods of time, including sustained standing or sitting, repetitive hand and wrist motions, fine motor coordination, and precise movements necessary for medication preparation and handling in accordance with sterile compounding and infection control standards. Requires the ability to remain mentally alert, maintain sustained concentration, and demonstrate strong attention to detail for prolonged periods in a fast-paced healthcare environment while adhering to all safety, regulatory, and quality standards.
- Potential for exposure to hazardous and toxic substances (including chemotherapeutic, cytotoxic drugs and cleaning solutions), sticks or cuts by needles and other sharp items, and exposure to communicable illness. Potential for musculoskeletal injuries if proper lifting and carrying techniques are not used.
- Must practice WMC's Standards of Performance Service Guidelines and Standards. Must be sensitive to the needs of patients, families, visitors, co-workers and staff. Must possess an extremely pleasant, courteous and helpful attitude; excellent communication skills and the ability to work closely and cooperatively with others is required. Ability to work cooperatively with hospital and pharmacy staff. Ability to handle frequent interruptions and adapt to changes in workload and work schedule. Ability to set priorities and solve problems. Fosters a team environment by providing orientation and training to new team members. Ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written). Ability to meet the pharmaceutical care needs of neonatal, pediatric, adolescent, adult, geriatric, obstetric, and oncology.
Key Results
- Demonstrates accuracy, knowledge, and proficiency of principles and techniques of sterile compounding (USP797 Standards)
- Demonstrates accuracy, knowledge, and proficiency of principles and techniques of non-sterile compounding (USP795)
- Demonstrates knowledge and proficiency of principles and techniques of handling hazardous medications
- Demonstrates accuracy, knowledge, and proficiency of principles and techniques of unit dosing medications
- Demonstrates accuracy and knowledge of handling controlled medications
- Demonstrates accuracy and knowledge of pharmacy automation.
- Performs other duties as assigned by Supervisor (e.g. projects, expired section, etc.)
- Contributes to the effective operation of the department by complying with in a timely manner defined workflow schedules, related policies, and department initiatives.
- Collect and documents medication histories.
- Contributes to a team environment by demonstrating a positive attitude and assisting co-workers as time permits
- Exhibits flexibility regarding work assignments and work schedule. Available to work overtime as appropriate.
- Absenteeism and tardiness are within policy guidelines.
