Pharmacy Technicians
Prepare medications under the direction of a
pharmacist. May measure, mix, count out, label, and record amounts and dosages
of medications according to prescription orders.
Sample of reported job titles: Accredited
Pharmacy Technician, Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT), Chemotherapy
Pharmacy Technician (Chemo Pharmacy Technician), Compounding Technician, OR
Pharmacy Tech (Operating Room Pharmacy Tech), RPhT (Registered Pharmacy
Technician)
Pharmacy technicians play a critical role in the
healthcare system, supporting pharmacists in the preparation and distribution
of medications to patients. Their work ensures that medications are provided in
an accurate and safe manner. Pharmacy technicians are tasked with a variety of
responsibilities, which include preparing medications according to prescription
orders, measuring, mixing, counting, labeling, and recording dosages and
medication amounts.
The primary function of a pharmacy technician is to
assist the pharmacist in preparing medications for patients, ensuring that each
medication is dispensed accurately and according to the physician's
instructions. This can include tasks such as measuring liquid medications,
counting pills, preparing compounded medications (which involve mixing drugs to
create a specific dosage form), and labeling prescriptions. Pharmacy
technicians are also responsible for maintaining accurate records of
prescriptions, dosages, and quantities dispensed to ensure the integrity of the
patient’s treatment.
In addition to preparing medications, pharmacy
technicians help manage the inventory of medications in the pharmacy. They are
responsible for ensuring that medications are stocked and readily available,
conducting inventory checks, and reordering medications as necessary. Pharmacy
technicians must also maintain a clean and organized work environment, ensuring
that all equipment, supplies, and medication storage areas are appropriately
maintained.
Pharmacy technicians may work in a variety of
settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities,
and clinics. In hospital settings, specialized pharmacy technicians, such as
chemotherapy pharmacy technicians, focus on the preparation of medications
specifically for cancer patients. They may work with hazardous medications and
must follow strict safety protocols. Operating room pharmacy technicians (OR
pharmacy techs) are another specialized category, working directly in the operating
room to prepare and manage medications for surgeries.
Certification and training are essential for pharmacy
technicians. Many technicians pursue certification from professional
organizations such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB), which
offers the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) credential. Certification often
requires passing an exam and meeting continuing education requirements to
ensure that pharmacy technicians are up to date on best practices, medication
safety, and regulatory standards. In addition to certification, some states or
employers may require pharmacy technicians to register with the state board of
pharmacy or meet additional training requirements.
Pharmacy technicians need strong attention to detail,
organizational skills, and the ability to follow instructions precisely. They
must be familiar with medications, drug interactions, and proper dosage forms,
as mistakes in medication preparation can have serious consequences.
Additionally, technicians must adhere to confidentiality requirements and
maintain patient privacy in all aspects of their work.
Overall, pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the
healthcare system by supporting pharmacists and ensuring that patients receive
their prescribed medications safely and accurately. The specialized training
and certifications they acquire help ensure they are equipped to handle various
tasks and challenges in a dynamic and ever-evolving healthcare environment.
As a pharmacy technician, I play a critical role in
the healthcare system by supporting pharmacists in the preparation and
distribution of medications to patients. My work ensures that medications are
provided accurately and safely. I am tasked with a variety of responsibilities,
including preparing medications according to prescription orders, measuring,
mixing, counting, labeling, and recording dosages and medication amounts.
My primary function is to assist the pharmacist in
preparing medications for patients, ensuring that each medication is dispensed
accurately and according to the physician's instructions. This includes tasks
like measuring liquid medications, counting pills, preparing compounded
medications (mixing drugs to create specific dosage forms), and labeling
prescriptions. I am also responsible for maintaining accurate records of
prescriptions, dosages, and quantities dispensed to ensure the integrity of the
patient's treatment.
In addition to preparing medications, I help manage
the inventory of medications in the pharmacy. I am responsible for ensuring
that medications are stocked and readily available, conducting inventory
checks, and reordering medications as necessary. I also make sure that the work
environment is clean and organized, ensuring that all equipment, supplies, and
medication storage areas are properly maintained.
I can work in a variety of settings, including retail
pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and clinics. In hospital
settings, I may specialize as a chemotherapy pharmacy technician, focusing on
the preparation of medications for cancer patients, which involves working with
hazardous medications and following strict safety protocols. I can also work as
an operating room pharmacy technician (OR pharmacy tech), where I prepare and
manage medications for surgeries directly in the operating room.
Certification and training are essential in my role.
I’ve pursued certification from professional organizations like the Pharmacy
Technician Certification Board (PTCB), which offers the Certified Pharmacy
Technician (CPhT) credential. Certification often requires passing an exam and
meeting continuing education requirements to ensure that I am up to date on
best practices, medication safety, and regulatory standards. Depending on the
state or employer, I may also need to register with the state board of pharmacy
or meet additional training requirements.
As a pharmacy technician, I need to have strong
attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to follow
instructions precisely. I must be familiar with medications, drug interactions,
and proper dosage forms, as any mistake in medication preparation could have
serious consequences. Additionally, I adhere to confidentiality requirements
and ensure patient privacy in all aspects of my work.
Overall, I play a vital role in the healthcare system
by supporting pharmacists and ensuring that patients receive their prescribed
medications safely and accurately. The specialized training and certifications
I’ve acquired help ensure that I am equipped to handle various tasks and
challenges in this dynamic and ever-evolving healthcare environment.
Occupation-Specific Information
Tasks
Receive written prescription or refill requests and
verify that information is complete and accurate.
Enter prescription information into computer
databases.
Establish or maintain patient profiles, including
lists of medications taken by individual patients.
Maintain proper storage and security conditions for
drugs.
Receive and store incoming supplies, verify quantities
against invoices, check for outdated medications in current inventory, and
inform supervisors of stock needs and shortages.
Answer telephones, responding to questions or
requests.
Assist customers by answering simple questions,
locating items, or referring them to the pharmacist for medication information.
Operate cash registers to accept payment from
customers.
Price and file prescriptions that have been filled.
Mix pharmaceutical preparations, according to written
prescriptions.
Order, label, and count stock of medications,
chemicals, or supplies and enter inventory data into computer.
Clean and help maintain equipment or work areas and
sterilize glassware, according to prescribed methods.
Prepack bulk medicines, fill bottles with prescribed
medications, and type and affix labels.
Compute charges for medication or equipment dispensed
to hospital patients and enter data in computer.
Prepare and process medical insurance claim forms and
records.
Transfer medication from vials to the appropriate
number of sterile, disposable syringes, using aseptic techniques.
Restock intravenous (IV) supplies and add measured
drugs or nutrients to IV solutions under sterile conditions to prepare IV packs
for various uses, such as chemotherapy medication.
Supply and monitor robotic machines that dispense
medicine into containers and label the containers.
Deliver medications or pharmaceutical supplies to
patients, nursing stations, or surgery.
Maintain and merchandise home healthcare products or
services.
Price stock and mark items for sale.
As a pharmacy technician, my tasks are diverse and
essential in supporting the overall operation of the pharmacy. One of my
primary responsibilities is to receive written prescriptions or refill requests
and verify that all information is complete and accurate. This ensures that
patients receive the correct medication in the proper dosages and that no
errors are made. After confirming the details, I enter the prescription
information into computer databases, maintaining accurate records of all
medications dispensed.
In addition to managing prescription data, I establish
and maintain patient profiles. These profiles include lists of medications
taken by individual patients, which allows for easy reference and helps avoid
medication errors or interactions. I also play a role in maintaining proper
storage and security conditions for drugs, ensuring that medications are kept
in compliance with safety regulations to prevent contamination or degradation.
I assist with managing the inventory of medications
and supplies. I receive and store incoming supplies, verify quantities against
invoices, and check for outdated medications in current inventory. If I
identify any shortages or expired items, I inform supervisors so they can place
orders or take necessary actions. Along with inventory control, I also answer
telephones, responding to inquiries or directing patients to the pharmacist for
more detailed medication information.
Customer service is another important aspect of my
job. I help customers by answering simple questions, locating products, and
referring them to the pharmacist when they need more complex medication advice.
Additionally, I operate the cash register to process customer payments, price,
and file prescriptions that have been filled, ensuring proper documentation and
accurate charges for medications.
My role also includes tasks such as mixing
pharmaceutical preparations according to written prescriptions and prepacking
bulk medicines into bottles for dispensing. This involves adhering to strict
guidelines and safety measures to ensure that the medications are prepared
correctly. I may also be involved in ordering, labeling, and counting stock of
medications, chemicals, and supplies, entering the necessary data into the
computer system for inventory purposes.
Another key responsibility is to clean and maintain
equipment or work areas, ensuring that the environment is sterile and safe.
This includes sterilizing glassware and other equipment according to prescribed
methods. I also prepare and process medical insurance claim forms and records,
ensuring proper documentation for patient billing and reimbursement purposes.
In specialized settings, I may handle tasks such as
transferring medication from vials to sterile syringes using aseptic
techniques, or restocking intravenous (IV) supplies. I might also assist in
adding measured drugs or nutrients to IV solutions, especially when preparing
IV packs for treatments such as chemotherapy. Additionally, I may be
responsible for supplying and monitoring robotic machines that dispense
medication into containers and affix labels.
Finally, I may deliver medications or pharmaceutical
supplies to patients, nursing stations, or surgical units, ensuring timely and
accurate delivery. In some cases, I may be involved in merchandising home
healthcare products or services, pricing stock, and marking items for sale.
Through these tasks, I support the safe, efficient, and effective operation of
the pharmacy, ensuring that patients receive the care and medication they need.
Technology Skills
Accounting software — Billing and reimbursement
software
Data base user interface and query software —
Database software; Drug compatibility software
Electronic mail software — Microsoft
Outlook
Enterprise resource planning ERP software —
Pharmacy management software
Inventory management software — Pyxis MedStation
software
Label making software — Label-making software
Medical software — Medical condition coding
software; MEDITECH software ;
Patient record maintenance software; Pharmaceutical software; 2 more
Office suite software — Microsoft Office
software
Point of sale POS software
Presentation software — Microsoft
PowerPoint
Spreadsheet software — Microsoft Excel
Word processing software — Microsoft Word
As a pharmacy technician, I utilize various technology
skills and software tools to efficiently manage medication dispensing,
inventory, patient records, and pharmacy operations. These tools are essential
for ensuring accuracy, compliance, and smooth workflow within the pharmacy.
One of the key tools I use is accounting software,
specifically billing and reimbursement software. This helps me process
payments, generate invoices, and handle insurance claims. It ensures that the
pharmacy receives proper reimbursement for medications and services provided to
patients, and helps maintain accurate financial records.
In managing patient and prescription data, I work with
database software and query tools. These tools allow me to organize and
retrieve essential information quickly. For instance, I use drug compatibility
software to verify potential interactions between medications, ensuring that
patients receive safe and appropriate treatment. Additionally, I access
pharmacy management software, a type of enterprise resource planning (ERP)
software, to track prescriptions, manage orders, and monitor medication dispensation
throughout the pharmacy.
Inventory management software is crucial for
maintaining stock levels, managing medication orders, and preventing shortages
or overstocking. Pyxis MedStation software, in particular, helps manage
automated dispensing systems, allowing for more efficient and accurate
medication distribution within the pharmacy. I use this software to track
medications, maintain inventory records, and ensure that all products are
stored and dispensed correctly.
Label-making software is another important tool, as it
helps me generate accurate medication labels with crucial information such as
patient instructions, dosage, and warnings. I also use medical software to
maintain patient records and coding information. Medical condition coding
software allows me to assign appropriate codes to diagnoses, while MEDITECH
software is used for accessing and maintaining patient medical records.
Pharmaceutical software helps manage drug interactions, side effects, and dosage
information, providing important insights for patient care.
I also rely on office suite software like Microsoft
Office, which includes tools such as Microsoft Word for documentation,
Microsoft Excel for tracking inventory and patient data in spreadsheets, and
Microsoft PowerPoint for creating presentations. These tools are useful for
organizing information, presenting data, and creating reports.
Point of sale (POS) software is an essential tool for
processing customer transactions, managing payments, and handling sales
records. I use POS software to ensure smooth transactions and maintain accurate
sales data. Whether I'm assisting customers with prescription pickups or
processing retail sales, this software helps ensure efficiency and accuracy.
Lastly, electronic mail software like Microsoft
Outlook is a vital communication tool. I use it to communicate with
pharmacists, suppliers, patients, and other healthcare professionals, ensuring
that important information is exchanged in a timely and organized manner.
Overall, these technology skills and software tools
help streamline the various responsibilities of a pharmacy technician. By
leveraging these technologies, I can ensure that medications are accurately
dispensed, patient records are well-maintained, and the pharmacy operates
efficiently, all while providing excellent care and service to patients.
Occupational Requirements
Work Activities
Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and
otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Working with Computers — Using computers and
computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software,
set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with
Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to
determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or
standards.
Processing Information — Compiling, coding,
categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or
data.
Documenting/Recording Information — Entering,
transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or
electronic/magnetic form.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal
Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working
relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings —
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the
environment, to detect or assess problems.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public —
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes
serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates —
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by
telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events —
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or
similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the
educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs
or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping
up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the
underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down
information or data into separate parts.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing
information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve
problems.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work —
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish
your work.
Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing
personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal
care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others —
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others —
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts,
or otherwise negotiating with others.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization —
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the
organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources.
This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or
e-mail.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others —
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of
Products, Events, or Information — Estimating sizes, distances, and
quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to
perform a work activity.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials —
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors
or other problems or defects.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People —
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the
developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping
others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling
events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and
arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and
manipulating things.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring
and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
As a pharmacy technician, the work activities I engage
in require a blend of technical expertise, interpersonal skills, and an ability
to handle multiple tasks efficiently. These activities are fundamental to
ensuring that medications are dispensed accurately, patient safety is
maintained, and the pharmacy runs smoothly.
One of the key tasks I perform is getting information
from various sources. This includes gathering prescription details from
patients, verifying insurance information, and ensuring that prescription
orders are complete and accurate. I also stay informed about changes in drug
protocols, regulations, and pharmacy practices, so I am constantly learning and
adapting to new information.
I regularly work with computers to input prescription
data, manage inventory, and process information related to patient care. I use
pharmacy management software, billing systems, and inventory tracking tools to
ensure that all relevant information is up-to-date and accurate. These systems
help me track prescriptions, handle patient records, and manage medication
stock.
A critical part of my role involves evaluating
information to determine compliance with standards. For example, I check
prescriptions for accuracy, ensure medications are stored correctly, and
monitor that all activities follow state and federal laws. My ability to assess
information and ensure compliance is crucial for patient safety and the pharmacy's
operational integrity.
Processing information is another vital task, as I
handle large volumes of data, including prescription orders, patient details,
and medication stock levels. This often involves verifying quantities,
categorizing medications, and calculating dosages. Accuracy in processing information
is key to ensuring the correct medication is dispensed.
Documenting and recording information is an ongoing
responsibility. I maintain detailed records of prescriptions filled, patient
profiles, and medication inventory. This documentation is essential for
tracking treatment history, ensuring that medications are administered
correctly, and adhering to legal requirements.
Establishing and maintaining interpersonal
relationships is also part of my daily routine. I interact with pharmacists,
patients, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care, answer
questions, and provide customer service. Building strong, cooperative
relationships is essential for creating a positive work environment and
ensuring effective communication within the healthcare team.
I am also involved in monitoring processes, materials,
or surroundings to identify any issues. This might involve reviewing medication
stocks, checking for expired drugs, or ensuring proper storage conditions.
Monitoring these elements helps prevent errors and ensures that the pharmacy
remains compliant with regulatory standards.
Performing for or working directly with the public is
a significant aspect of my job. Whether I am answering customer inquiries,
providing medication advice, or assisting patients in the pharmacy, I interact
with the public regularly. These interactions require a patient and helpful
demeanor, as well as the ability to convey complex medical information clearly.
In terms of communicating with supervisors, peers, or
subordinates, I provide updates on prescription orders, inventory levels, and
any issues that may arise. Effective communication is critical in ensuring that
tasks are completed accurately and that the team is aligned in its objectives.
Finally, I engage in making decisions and solving
problems. This might include resolving prescription discrepancies, identifying
and addressing medication shortages, or troubleshooting any technical issues
with pharmacy equipment or software.
Overall, my role as a pharmacy technician involves a
variety of work activities that require me to balance technical tasks with
customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills. By staying
organized and focused, I ensure that the pharmacy operates efficiently and that
patients receive safe, accurate care.
Detailed Work Activities
Perform clerical work in medical settings.
Verify accuracy of patient information.
Enter codes or other information into computers.
Enter information into databases or software programs.
Enter patient or treatment data into computers.
Process medical billing information.
Record patient medical histories.
Maintain inventory of medical supplies or equipment.
Prepare medications or medical solutions.
Clean medical equipment or facilities.
Maintain medical equipment or instruments.
Sterilize medical equipment or instruments.
Merchandise healthcare products or services.
As a pharmacy technician, I am responsible for a
variety of detailed work activities that contribute to the smooth operation of
the pharmacy and ensure the safe and accurate dispensing of medications. These
activities require a blend of technical expertise, organizational skills, and
attention to detail to meet the needs of both patients and the healthcare
system.
One of the fundamental tasks I perform is clerical
work in medical settings, which involves maintaining organized records,
managing patient files, and ensuring that all necessary documents are
up-to-date. I process incoming prescriptions, verify the accuracy of patient
information, and ensure all required details are included. Accurate data entry
is crucial for preventing errors and ensuring patient safety.
Verifying the accuracy of patient information is a
core responsibility. I double-check prescription details, including the
patient's name, birth date, insurance information, and medication orders.
Ensuring that this information is correct is critical for preventing medication
errors and ensuring proper billing and reimbursement.
I also enter codes or other information into computers,
such as ICD codes (International Classification of Diseases) for medical
diagnoses and other relevant data. This information is crucial for proper
documentation, insurance claims, and medical record keeping. Additionally, I enter
information into databases or software programs, using pharmacy management
software to update patient profiles, track medication history, and manage
prescription refills.
A significant part of my job involves processing
medical billing information. I verify insurance coverage, submit claims for
medications dispensed, and ensure that the billing is accurate and in
compliance with healthcare regulations. This task requires careful attention to
detail to ensure that patients are correctly billed and that the pharmacy is
reimbursed appropriately for services rendered.
I am also tasked with recording patient medical
histories in electronic health records (EHR) systems. This involves documenting
past prescriptions, allergies, medical conditions, and other relevant
information that helps healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding
treatment plans.
In addition to administrative tasks, I maintain
inventory of medical supplies or equipment. This includes tracking stock
levels, ordering new supplies, and ensuring that medications and medical tools
are available when needed. I monitor the expiration dates of medications and
remove expired stock to prevent errors.
Preparing medications or medical solutions is another
essential duty. I follow written prescriptions to mix, package, and label
medications according to specific instructions. Whether it involves dispensing
pills, preparing IV solutions, or compounding custom medications, I take care
to follow all necessary procedures to ensure accuracy and safety.
I also have responsibilities related to cleaning
medical equipment or facilities. Keeping work areas sanitized is critical for
preventing contamination and maintaining a safe environment for both patients
and staff. This includes cleaning tools, counters, and other surfaces in the
pharmacy.
Maintaining and sterilizing medical equipment or
instruments is another key part of my role. Some equipment, especially those
used in sterile preparations, must be cleaned and sterilized before use to
prevent infections and ensure the effectiveness of treatments.
Finally, I assist in merchandising healthcare products
or services. This involves displaying over-the-counter medications, medical
devices, and healthcare products, and providing guidance to customers about
their use. I ensure that products are properly labeled, stored, and available
for customers to purchase as needed.
In summary, the detailed work activities I perform as
a pharmacy technician are varied and essential for ensuring the smooth
functioning of the pharmacy, maintaining patient safety, and supporting the
healthcare system. Each task, whether administrative, technical, or
patient-facing, contributes to the overall goal of providing accurate,
efficient, and compassionate care.
Work Context
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — 98%
responded “Extremely important.”
Telephone — 100% responded “Every day.”
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — 97%
responded “Every day.”
Contact With Others — 90% responded “Constant
contact with others.”
Electronic Mail — 78% responded “Every day.”
Face-to-Face Discussions — 68% responded “Every
day.”
Spend Time Standing — 74% responded “Continually
or almost continually.”
Work With Work Group or Team — 72% responded
“Extremely important.”
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — 57%
responded “Extremely important.”
Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People — 51%
responded “Every day.”
Time Pressure — 69% responded “Every day.”
Physical Proximity — 68% responded “Moderately
close (at arm's length).”
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — 51%
responded “Continually or almost continually.”
Consequence of Error — 44% responded “Extremely
serious.”
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results —
44% responded “Important results.”
Frequency of Decision Making — 57% responded
“Every day.”
Spend Time Walking and Running — 42% responded
“Continually or almost continually.”
Coordinate or Lead Others — 47% responded
“Extremely important.”
Deal With External Customers — 52% responded
“Extremely important.”
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or
Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — 54% responded “Continually or almost
continually.”
Frequency of Conflict Situations — 37% responded
“Every day.”
Structured versus Unstructured Work — 53%
responded “Some freedom.”
Exposed to Disease or Infections — 49% responded
“Every day.”
Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — 37%
responded “Very high responsibility.”
Responsible for Others' Health and Safety — 30%
responded “Very high responsibility.”
Freedom to Make Decisions — 37% responded “Some
freedom.”
Exposed to Contaminants — 44% responded “Every
day.”
Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable —
42% responded “Every day.”