What is an Inpatient Hospital Pharmacy Technician Job?
A hospital pharmacy technician is a healthcare professional who works in the pharmacy department of a hospital or medical center. They provide assistance to pharmacists in dispensing medications and ensuring that patients receive the correct dosage and type of medication according to their prescriptions. Inpatient hospital pharmacy technicians specifically work with patients who are staying in the hospital and require medication management during their stay.
What Usually Do in this Position?
Inpatient hospital pharmacy technicians are responsible for a variety of tasks that contribute to the safe and efficient management of medication in a hospital setting. These tasks may include reviewing medication orders, preparing and dispensing medications, monitoring inventory levels, and communicating with healthcare providers and patients about medication-related issues. They may also be responsible for maintaining accurate patient records and ensuring that medications are stored and handled properly.
Top 5 Skills for the Position
To be successful in an inpatient hospital pharmacy technician job, there are several key skills that are essential. These include:
- Attention to detail: Inpatient hospital pharmacy technicians must be meticulous in their work, ensuring that medications are dispensed accurately and that patient records are kept up-to-date.
- Communication skills: Inpatient hospital pharmacy technicians must be able to communicate effectively with healthcare providers and patients, providing information about medications and answering any questions that may arise.
- Organizational skills: Inpatient hospital pharmacy technicians must be able to manage multiple tasks at once, prioritizing their workload and ensuring that medications are prepared and dispensed in a timely manner.
- Technical skills: Inpatient hospital pharmacy technicians must be familiar with a variety of pharmacy-related software programs and equipment, such as computerized dispensing systems and automated medication dispensers.
- Customer service skills: Inpatient hospital pharmacy technicians must be friendly and approachable, providing excellent customer service to patients and their families.
How to Become an Inpatient Hospital Pharmacy Technician
To become an inpatient hospital pharmacy technician, you will typically need to complete an accredited pharmacy technician training program. These programs may be offered by community colleges, vocational schools, or online institutions. In addition to completing coursework, you may also need to complete a certain number of hours of supervised on-the-job training.
Once you have completed your training, you will need to pass a certification exam in order to become a certified pharmacy technician (CPhT). This certification is offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) and is recognized by many employers in the healthcare industry.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for pharmacy technicians as of May 2020 was $34,890. However, salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as location, years of experience, and level of education.
Roles and Types
Inpatient hospital pharmacy technicians may work in a variety of roles within a hospital or medical center. Some may work in the central pharmacy, where medications are prepared and dispensed for all patients in the hospital. Others may work in specialty areas such as oncology, critical care, or neonatal care, where specialized medications and dosages may be required.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
Inpatient hospital pharmacy technician jobs can be found in hospitals and medical centers throughout the United States. Some of the states with the highest employment levels for pharmacy technicians include California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania.
What Are the Typical Tools
Inpatient hospital pharmacy technicians may use a variety of tools and equipment in their work, including:
- Computerized dispensing systems
- Automated medication dispensers
- Prescription filling software
- Label printers
- Barcode scanners
- IV pumps
- Electronic health records (EHRs)
- Medical terminology references
In Conclusion
Inpatient hospital pharmacy technicians play a critical role in ensuring that patients receive the correct medications and dosages during their hospital stays. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, be sure to develop the skills and qualifications needed to succeed, including attention to detail, communication skills, and technical expertise. With the right training and certification, you can be on your way to a rewarding career in healthcare.