WHAT IS A pharmacy tech prn job
A pharmacy tech prn job, also known as a pharmacy technician per diem job, is a position in the healthcare industry that involves assisting pharmacists in various tasks related to medication and patient care. PRN stands for "pro re nata," which is a Latin term meaning "as needed" or "as the situation arises." In this type of job, pharmacy technicians are hired on an as-needed basis, often to fill in for regular staff members who are absent or to cover busy periods.
WHAT DO INDIVIDUALS IN THIS POSITION USUALLY DO
Pharmacy techs in PRN jobs have a wide range of responsibilities. They work under the supervision of pharmacists and perform tasks such as preparing and dispensing medications, managing inventory, organizing and labeling medication supplies, and assisting with administrative duties. They may also interact with patients by answering their questions, providing information about medications, and ensuring that they understand how to properly take their prescribed drugs. Additionally, pharmacy techs may be responsible for maintaining accurate records, handling insurance claims, and operating computer systems used for medication management.
TOP 5 SKILLS FOR THIS POSITION
To excel in a pharmacy tech PRN job, individuals should possess certain skills and qualities. Here are the top five skills that are crucial for this position:
- Attention to detail: Pharmacy techs need to be meticulous in their work to ensure accuracy in medication preparation and inventory management.
- Knowledge of pharmaceuticals: A solid understanding of different medications, their uses, potential side effects, and proper dosages is essential in order to provide accurate information to patients and healthcare professionals.
- Strong communication skills: Pharmacy techs must be able to effectively communicate with pharmacists, patients, and other members of the healthcare team to ensure smooth workflow and accurate information exchange.
- Organizational skills: Given the variety of tasks involved, pharmacy techs need to be well-organized and capable of multitasking to manage their responsibilities efficiently.
- Technical proficiency: Proficiency in using computer systems, pharmacy software, and other technology tools is crucial for managing medication inventory, processing prescriptions, and maintaining accurate records.
HOW TO BECOME A PHARMACY TECH PRN SPECIALIST
To become a pharmacy tech PRN specialist, one typically needs to complete a formal education and obtain certification. Here are the general steps involved in pursuing this career path:
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent: A high school diploma or GED is typically required to enter a pharmacy technician training program.
- Complete a pharmacy technician training program: Enroll in a pharmacy technician training program, which can be found at community colleges, vocational schools, or online institutions. These programs typically last around one year and cover topics such as pharmacy calculations, pharmacology, pharmacy law, and medication safety.
- Gain practical experience: Many training programs include a hands-on externship or internship component, providing students with real-world experience in pharmacy settings.
- Obtain certification: While certification requirements vary by state, becoming a certified pharmacy technician (CPhT) can enhance job prospects. Certification is typically obtained by passing an exam administered by a recognized certifying body, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) or the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).
- Maintain certification and stay updated: Certified pharmacy technicians are often required to complete continuing education courses to renew their certification and stay updated on the latest developments in the field.
AVERAGE SALARY
The average salary for pharmacy tech PRN jobs can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the specific healthcare setting. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2020, the median annual wage for pharmacy technicians was $34,020. However, it is important to note that PRN positions are often paid on an hourly basis, and rates can vary significantly. It is advisable to research the salary range in your specific area and consult job listings to get a better understanding of the compensation offered for pharmacy tech PRN jobs.
ROLES AND TYPES
Pharmacy tech PRN jobs can be found in various healthcare settings, including retail pharmacies, hospital pharmacies, long-term care facilities, and mail-order pharmacies. In each setting, the roles and responsibilities of pharmacy technicians may slightly differ:
- Retail pharmacies: In retail pharmacies, pharmacy techs often interact directly with patients, assisting in prescription filling, providing medication counseling, and managing inventory.
- Hospital pharmacies: In hospital settings, pharmacy techs may work alongside pharmacists to prepare and dispense medications to inpatients, assist with medication reconciliation, and manage medication supplies.
- Long-term care facilities: Pharmacy techs in long-term care facilities primarily focus on medication management for residents, including medication ordering, packaging, and distribution.
- Mail-order pharmacies: In mail-order pharmacies, pharmacy techs may be involved in processing and packaging medication orders for delivery to patients.
LOCATIONS WITH THE MOST POPULAR PHARMACY TECH PRN JOBS IN THE USA
Pharmacy tech PRN jobs can be found throughout the United States, but certain locations may offer more opportunities in this field. Some of the top states with a high demand for pharmacy technicians, including PRN positions, are California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania. Metropolitan areas with large healthcare systems or high population densities often have a greater need for pharmacy techs.
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL TOOLS USED IN THIS POSITION
Pharmacy technicians in PRN jobs use a variety of tools to perform their tasks efficiently. Some of the typical tools used in this position include:
- Computer systems: Pharmacy techs rely on computer systems to manage medication inventory, process prescriptions, and maintain patient records.
- Pharmacy software: Specialized software is used to assist in medication dispensing, drug interaction checking, and other pharmacy-related tasks.
- Automated dispensing machines: These machines help pharmacy techs in accurately measuring, packaging, and labeling medications.
- Medication carts: Pharmacy techs often use medication carts to organize and transport medications within a healthcare facility.
- Measuring devices: Measuring devices such as syringes, graduated cylinders, and pill counters are essential tools for pharmacy techs to ensure accurate medication preparation.
IN CONCLUSION
In conclusion, pharmacy tech PRN jobs offer a flexible and rewarding career path for individuals interested in the healthcare industry. With the right skills, education, and certification, one can pursue this career and contribute to the safe and effective delivery of medications to patients. Whether in retail pharmacies, hospitals, long-term care facilities, or mail-order pharmacies, pharmacy technicians play a vital role in supporting pharmacists and ensuring proper medication management. With the demand for pharmacy techs expected to grow in the coming years, this field presents promising opportunities for aspiring professionals.