What is a hospital pharmacy technician job?
A hospital pharmacy technician job is a position within a healthcare setting where a pharmacy technician works in a hospital pharmacy. The main role of a hospital pharmacy technician is to assist pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications to patients. This is a critical role within a hospital, as it ensures that patients receive the correct medications in a timely and accurate manner.
What usually do in this position?
Hospital pharmacy technicians are responsible for a variety of tasks in their daily work. These tasks include dispensing medications, preparing intravenous medications and sterile products, managing inventory, and communicating with healthcare professionals to ensure the safe and effective use of medications. They may also be responsible for answering patient questions and ensuring that they understand how to take their medications properly.
Top 5 skills for the position
To be a successful hospital pharmacy technician, there are several key skills that are important to have. These include:
- Attention to detail - Hospital pharmacy technicians must be meticulous in their work, paying close attention to the details of medication preparation and dispensing.
- Strong communication skills - Given the importance of medication safety, hospital pharmacy technicians must be able to communicate effectively with patients, healthcare professionals, and other members of the hospital staff.
- Technical proficiency - Hospital pharmacy technicians must have a strong understanding of pharmaceuticals and be able to use technology and equipment to safely prepare medications.
- Teamwork - Hospital pharmacy technicians work closely with pharmacists and other healthcare professionals, so it is important to be able to work well in a team environment.
- Flexibility - Hospital pharmacy technicians must be able to adapt to changes in medication orders and workloads, and be willing to take on new responsibilities as needed.
How to become this type of specialist
To become a hospital pharmacy technician, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Many employers also prefer candidates to have completed a pharmacy technician training program or have prior experience working in a pharmacy setting. Certification is also available through organizations such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
Average salary
The average salary for a hospital pharmacy technician varies depending on factors such as location, experience, and level of certification. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for pharmacy technicians as of May 2020 was $34,020.
Roles and types
Hospital pharmacy technicians may work in a variety of roles, including inpatient pharmacy, outpatient pharmacy, and sterile compounding. Inpatient pharmacy technicians work directly with patients, preparing and dispensing medications to be used during their hospital stay. Outpatient pharmacy technicians work in hospital pharmacies that serve patients who are not staying in the hospital, such as those coming in for outpatient procedures or picking up prescriptions after a hospital stay. Sterile compounding technicians are responsible for preparing medications that must be sterile, such as intravenous medications.
Locations with the most popular jobs in USA
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the states with the highest employment levels for pharmacy technicians as of May 2020 were California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania.
What are the typical tools
Hospital pharmacy technicians use a variety of tools and equipment in their work, including computer systems for medication order entry and inventory management, automated dispensing systems, and compounding equipment such as laminar flow hoods and sterile vial filling machines. They may also use a range of medical devices and equipment, such as syringes, needles, and IV bags.
In conclusion
Hospital pharmacy technician jobs are important roles within healthcare settings, ensuring that patients receive safe and effective medications. To be successful in this position, it is important to have strong attention to detail, communication skills, technical proficiency, teamwork abilities, and flexibility. With the right training and certification, a career as a hospital pharmacy technician can be a rewarding and fulfilling choice for those interested in healthcare and pharmacy.