What is an IV Pharmacy Technician Job?
An IV Pharmacy Technician is a healthcare professional who is responsible for preparing and dispensing intravenous medications to patients. The job requires a high level of skill and attention to detail, as well as a deep understanding of medication safety and the various types of IV solutions and medications that are used in the hospital setting.
What Usually Do in This Position?
In an IV Pharmacy Technician job, your main responsibilities will include preparing and dispensing IV medications, managing and maintaining IV inventory, and ensuring that all IV medications are labeled and stored correctly. You will also be responsible for monitoring patients for any adverse reactions to IV medications and communicating with other healthcare professionals on the patient's care team.
Top 5 Skills for Position
As an IV Pharmacy Technician, you will need to have a variety of skills to succeed in your job. Some of the top skills include:
- Attention to detail
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to work well under pressure
- Excellent organizational skills
- Knowledge of medication safety and IV medication administration
How to Become This Type of Specialist
To become an IV Pharmacy Technician, you will typically need to complete a formal training program and obtain certification from a recognized organization, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). You will also need to have a high school diploma or equivalent and be able to pass a background check.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for Pharmacy Technicians in 2020 was $34,890. However, the salary for IV Pharmacy Technicians may be higher due to the specialized nature of the job.
Roles and Types
IV Pharmacy Technicians can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, and outpatient clinics. Some of the different roles that you may have as an IV Pharmacy Technician include IV compounding technician, IV admixture technician, or IV infusion technician.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
According to the BLS, the states with the highest level of employment for Pharmacy Technicians in 2020 were California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania. However, IV Pharmacy Technician jobs may be more concentrated in certain regions, such as major metropolitan areas or regions with a high concentration of healthcare facilities.
What are the Typical Tools
As an IV Pharmacy Technician, you will use a variety of tools and equipment to prepare and dispense IV medications, including IV pumps, syringes, needles, and sterile compounding equipment. You will also need to be proficient in using electronic health record systems and other computer programs to document medication administration and patient care.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, an IV Pharmacy Technician job is a challenging and rewarding career path for anyone interested in healthcare and medication administration. With the right skills and training, you can become a valuable member of a healthcare team and make a difference in the lives of patients who require IV medications.