When considering a career in the medical field, pharmacy technicians often go overlooked. This is unfortunate, as pharmacy technicians have a critical role in the healthcare system, ensuring the safe and efficient dispensing of medications. While the job of a pharmacy technician is often seen as being relatively straightforward, there are many little-known facts about working as a pharmacy technician that may surprise you.
You May Find Doctor Errors
One of the primary duties of a pharmacy technician is to review and verify prescriptions for accuracy. This means that pharmacy technicians may need help finding errors made by doctors, such as incorrect dosages or medication. Pharmacy technicians must then inform the doctor of the error and work to correct it.
It’s a Fast-Paced Environment
Pharmacy technicians must work quickly and accurately as they fill prescriptions. This means that pharmacy technicians must be able to multitask and stay organized in a fast-paced environment.
You Will Have to Deal with Difficult Customers
It is the responsibility of the pharmacy technician to provide excellent customer service. This means that pharmacy technicians must be able to handle difficult customers and resolve any issues that may arise.
You Can Work in a Hospital
In addition to working in a retail pharmacy setting, pharmacy technicians can also work in hospitals. In a hospital setting, pharmacy technicians would be responsible for preparing, labeling, and dispensing medications for patients. They would also need to be knowledgeable about drug interactions and be able to answer questions from patients and medical staff.
You Will Have Many Job Duties
The job duties of a pharmacy technician will vary depending on the setting in which they are working. In a retail setting, pharmacy technicians may be responsible for stocking shelves, preparing and labeling medications, taking inventory, and assisting customers with their questions and concerns.
In a hospital setting, they may be responsible for preparing and dispensing medications, keeping records of medication usage, and consulting with medical staff on drug interactions and other pharmacological issues.
You Should Always Be Up-to-Date
Pharmacy technicians need to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in medication safety protocols as well as changes in drug laws that affect pharmacies.
They should also maintain a working knowledge of different prescription drugs to provide accurate information when patients or healthcare providers ask. Finally, pharmacy technicians need to pay close attention while preparing prescriptions because accuracy is essential when dealing with potentially dangerous medications like antibiotics or painkillers.
You Should Know Medical Equipment
Pharmacy technicians should also be familiar with the use and maintenance of medical equipment, such as pill counters or automated dispensing systems. They must follow safety protocols to ensure that medications are stored correctly and dispensed accurately.
To Sum Up
Working as a pharmacy technician can be a rewarding career with many growth opportunities. Pharmacy technicians provide vital services to the healthcare industry, such as compounding medications, verifying prescriptions, and assisting with customer service.
They must also be knowledgeable about drug interactions, patient safety, and pharmacy practice. Although there is a certain level of responsibility attached to this career, it can provide a good salary and benefits, as well as the satisfaction of helping others. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether a pharmacy technology career is right for them.
Northwest Suburban College offers pharmacy tech certification. Our healthcare career training is superb. Call us today to learn more about our programs.
