Definition of On-the-Job Training
On-the-job training (OJT) is a crucial component of becoming a pharmacy technician. It provides hands-on experience and practical skills necessary to succeed in this field. In this article, we will explore what OJT entails and the advantages it offers to aspiring pharmacy technicians.
What is OJT?
OJT refers to the training process where individuals acquire essential skills and knowledge while working in a real pharmacy setting. It involves direct supervision and guidance from experienced professionals, allowing trainees to learn and practice their skills in a practical environment.
During OJT, pharmacy technician trainees observe and actively participate in various tasks related to the daily operations of a pharmacy. They may assist with prescription filling, medication dispensing, inventory management, customer service, and more. This hands-on experience helps them gain proficiency in different aspects of the job and understand how to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Advantages/Benefits of OJT
OJT offers several advantages that contribute to the overall growth and success of pharmacy technician trainees. Here are some key benefits:
1. Practical Application: OJT allows trainees to apply their theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. This helps them understand the relevance of what they have learned and enhances their problem-solving abilities.
2. Real-World Experience: Working alongside experienced professionals gives trainees exposure to real-world scenarios they will encounter as pharmacy technicians. This experience prepares them for the challenges they may face in their future careers.
3. Hands-On Skill Development: OJT provides an opportunity for trainees to develop and refine their technical skills, such as prescription processing, compounding medications, and operating pharmacy software systems. By actively participating in these tasks, trainees become proficient in performing them accurately and efficiently.
4. Industry Insights: Trainees gain valuable insights into the pharmacy industry during OJT. They learn about industry regulations, best practices, and the importance of patient safety and confidentiality. This knowledge helps them become well-rounded professionals.
5. Networking: OJT allows trainees to build professional relationships with experienced pharmacy technicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. These connections can be beneficial for future job opportunities or mentorship.
6. Employment Opportunities: Completing OJT successfully increases the chances of securing employment as a pharmacy technician. Many employers prefer candidates with practical experience, and OJT provides trainees with the necessary skills to meet these expectations.
In Conclusion
On-the-job training plays a vital role in the development of pharmacy technicians. It offers trainees practical experience, skill development, industry insights, and networking opportunities. By participating in OJT, aspiring pharmacy technicians can enhance their knowledge, gain confidence, and become well-prepared for a successful career in this field.
Remember, if you’re interested in pursuing a career as a pharmacy technician, make sure to find accredited training programs that include comprehensive on-the-job training components.
Types of Pharmacy Settings that Offer On-the-Job Training (OJT)
A. Hospital Setting
In the field of pharmacy, a hospital setting offers a unique and dynamic environment for pharmacy technicians to gain valuable on-the-job training (OJT). Here are some key points to understand about OJT in a hospital setting:
– Hospital pharmacies are responsible for dispensing medications to patients within the hospital, including inpatient and outpatient settings.
– Pharmacy technicians working in a hospital setting may have the opportunity to work closely with other healthcare professionals such as doctors and nurses.
– OJT in a hospital setting allows pharmacy technicians to learn about different medication delivery systems, including IV (intravenous) medications and specialized equipment.
– Hospital pharmacies often handle a wide range of medications, from common prescriptions to specialized drugs used in critical care or oncology departments.
– By working in a hospital setting, pharmacy technicians can gain experience in medication reconciliation, medication order verification, and drug distribution processes.
– OJT in a hospital setting provides exposure to various clinical areas, allowing pharmacy technicians to learn about different medical conditions and treatment protocols.
For more information on hospital pharmacy settings, you can visit the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) website.
B. Community Pharmacy Setting
Community pharmacies, also known as retail pharmacies, offer another avenue for pharmacy technicians to receive on-the-job training. Here are some important details about OJT in a community pharmacy setting:
– Community pharmacies are typically located in retail stores or standalone locations and serve the general public.
– Pharmacy technicians working in community pharmacies assist pharmacists with prescription filling, patient counseling, and medication management.
– OJT in a community pharmacy setting provides hands-on experience in prescription processing, inventory management, and insurance billing procedures.
– Pharmacy technicians may have the opportunity to interact directly with patients, answering questions and providing basic healthcare advice.
– In a community pharmacy setting, pharmacy technicians learn about over-the-counter medications, health products, and various wellness programs.
– This type of OJT enables pharmacy technicians to develop strong customer service skills and gain a comprehensive understanding of the retail aspect of pharmacy practice.
For additional resources related to community pharmacy settings, you can refer to the National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) website.
C. Long-Term Care Setting
Long-term care pharmacies cater to patients residing in assisted living facilities, nursing homes, or other extended care facilities. Here’s what you need to know about OJT in a long-term care setting:
– Pharmacy technicians working in long-term care settings support medication management for patients who require ongoing care.
– OJT in a long-term care setting involves learning about medication administration systems, unit dose packaging, and medication distribution processes specific to these facilities.
– Pharmacy technicians assist in ensuring medication adherence, coordinating prescription refills, and handling medication-related documentation.
– In a long-term care setting, pharmacy technicians may also be involved in medication regimen reviews and medication reconciliation for transitioning patients.
– OJT in this setting offers exposure to geriatric patient care, as well as an understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals in long-term care.
To explore more about long-term care pharmacy settings, you can visit the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP) website.
D. Compounding Pharmacies and Specialty Settings
Compounding pharmacies and specialty settings offer specialized services that require additional training for pharmacy technicians. Here’s an overview of OJT in these settings:
– Compounding pharmacies prepare customized medications that are tailored to meet specific patient needs.
– OJT in a compounding pharmacy setting involves learning compounding techniques, proper handling of ingredients, and quality control measures.
– Pharmacy technicians in specialty settings, such as those specializing in oncology or fertility treatments, learn about specific medications and procedures unique to these areas.
– OJT in specialty settings provides an opportunity to work closely with healthcare professionals specializing in these fields and gain expertise in specific disease states.
– Pharmacy technicians in compounding pharmacies and specialty settings play a crucial role in ensuring medication safety and accuracy.
For further information on compounding pharmacies and specialty settings, you can refer to the International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists (IACP) website.
In conclusion, pharmacy technicians have the opportunity to receive valuable on-the-job training (OJT) in various pharmacy settings. Whether it’s a hospital, community pharmacy, long-term care facility, or a specialty setting, each offers a unique learning experience. By gaining OJT in these settings, pharmacy technicians can enhance their knowledge, skills, and overall competency in the field.
Hospital Setting
In a hospital setting, pharmacy technicians play a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of medications to patients. Through on-the-job training, pharmacy technicians gain valuable skills that enable them to excel in this fast-paced environment. Here are some of the skills learned in a hospital pharmacy setting:
- Medication Dispensing: Hospital pharmacy technicians learn how to accurately dispense medications by interpreting prescriptions and preparing the correct dosage forms.
- Inventory Management: Hospital pharmacies typically stock a wide range of medications and supplies. Pharmacy technicians learn how to manage inventory effectively, ensuring that medications are properly stored, stocked, and rotated.
- Compounding: In certain cases, hospital pharmacy technicians may be involved in compounding medications. This involves mixing or altering medications to meet specific patient needs. Technicians learn the proper techniques and safety precautions for compounding sterile and non-sterile products.
- IV Preparation: Hospital pharmacy technicians are often responsible for preparing intravenous (IV) medications. They learn how to accurately measure and mix IV solutions, ensuring the correct concentrations are achieved.
- Pharmacy Automation: Many hospitals utilize automation systems to streamline medication dispensing processes. Pharmacy technicians receive training on operating and maintaining these systems, such as automated dispensing cabinets and robotic medication dispensers.
- Patient Interaction: Pharmacy technicians in a hospital setting may have direct contact with patients. They assist in obtaining medication histories, providing medication counseling, and answering patient questions. Effective communication skills and empathy are crucial in this aspect of their role.
Community Pharmacy Setting
Working in a community pharmacy setting, such as a retail pharmacy or chain drugstore, provides pharmacy technicians with a different set of skills. Here are some of the skills learned through on-the-job training in a community pharmacy:
- Customer Service: Community pharmacy technicians interact with a diverse range of customers daily. They learn how to provide excellent customer service, addressing inquiries, and resolving issues promptly and professionally.
- Prescription Processing: Pharmacy technicians in community settings become proficient in processing prescriptions accurately and efficiently. They learn to verify insurance coverage, enter prescription information into computer systems, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
- Medication Counseling: Community pharmacy technicians often assist pharmacists in providing medication counseling to patients. They learn how to explain proper medication usage, potential side effects, and any necessary precautions to patients.
- Over-the-Counter (OTC) Products: Pharmacy technicians gain knowledge about various OTC products available in the community pharmacy. They can provide guidance to customers seeking OTC remedies for common ailments or general health concerns.
- Health Insurance: In a community pharmacy, technicians may assist customers in navigating health insurance plans and understanding coverage. They learn to process insurance claims and handle any billing-related issues.
- Medication Adherence: Ensuring patients take their medications as prescribed is crucial for their well-being. Pharmacy technicians learn strategies to promote medication adherence, such as medication synchronization programs or reminder systems.
Long-Term Care Setting
Pharmacy technicians working in long-term care settings, such as nursing homes or assisted living facilities, acquire specialized skills to meet the unique needs of this patient population. Here are some skills learned through on-the-job training in a long-term care pharmacy:
- Unit Dose Packaging: Long-term care pharmacy technicians become proficient in unit dose packaging. They learn how to package medications in individualized doses, ensuring accuracy and ease of administration for caregivers.
- Medication Administration Records (MARs): Technicians learn how to interpret and accurately transcribe medication orders from physicians onto MARs. This helps ensure that residents receive the correct medications at the appropriate times.
- Medication Reconciliation: Pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in medication reconciliation processes in long-term care settings. They help identify any discrepancies or potential drug interactions when residents transition between healthcare settings.
- Medication Disposal: Long-term care pharmacy technicians learn the proper procedures for disposing of expired or unused medications, adhering to environmental and safety regulations.
- Emergency Medication Kits: Long-term care facilities often maintain emergency medication kits. Technicians learn how to assemble and maintain these kits, ensuring that they are readily available when needed.
- Geriatric Considerations: Pharmacy technicians gain knowledge about the specific medication-related challenges faced by older adults. They learn about age-related changes, potential drug interactions, and appropriate dosing adjustments for this population.
Compounding Pharmacies and Specialty Settings
In compounding pharmacies and specialty settings, pharmacy technicians acquire specialized skills related to customized medications. Here are some skills learned through on-the-job training in these settings:
- Compounding Techniques: Pharmacy technicians receive extensive training in compounding medications. They learn various techniques, such as weighing, measuring, mixing, and packaging medications according to specific formulas and instructions.
- Quality Control: Technicians in compounding pharmacies and specialty settings learn how to perform quality control checks to ensure the accuracy, potency, and sterility of compounded medications.
- Specialized Equipment: Pharmacy technicians become familiar with specialized equipment used in compounding, such as balances, mortar and pestle, laminar flow hoods, and ointment mills. They learn proper usage, cleaning, and maintenance of these tools.
- Knowledge of Compounding Ingredients: Technicians gain knowledge about different compounding ingredients, including active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), excipients, and flavoring agents. They understand the compatibility of various ingredients and their role in medication formulation.
- Adherence to Sterile Techniques: Compounding pharmacy technicians learn strict aseptic techniques to maintain sterility during the compounding process. They understand the importance of maintaining a clean environment and following proper hand hygiene protocols.
- Specialty Medications: Pharmacy technicians in specialty settings gain expertise in handling specialty medications, such as those used for oncology, fertility, or immunotherapy. They learn proper storage, handling, and documentation requirements for these medications.
By gaining experience in different pharmacy settings, pharmacy technicians develop a diverse skill set that allows them to adapt to various roles within the field. Whether working in a hospital, community pharmacy, long-term care facility, or compounding pharmacy, these skills enable pharmacy technicians to provide safe and effective pharmaceutical care to patients.
Certification Requirements for Completion of OJT in Different Pharmacy Settings
As a pharmacy technician, obtaining on-the-job training (OJT) is an essential step towards gaining the necessary skills and experience in your career. Different pharmacy settings offer unique opportunities for OJT, each with its own requirements and benefits. In this article, we will explore the certification requirements for completing OJT in various pharmacy settings and provide resources for obtaining this valuable training.
Hospital Setting
OJT in a hospital setting offers pharmacy technicians exposure to a fast-paced environment and a wide range of medication-related responsibilities. To complete OJT in a hospital pharmacy, the following certification requirements must be met:
1. High School Diploma or Equivalent: Most hospitals require pharmacy technicians to possess a high school diploma or GED.
2. State Registration: Depending on your state’s regulations, you may need to register as a pharmacy technician with the appropriate regulatory body.
3. National Certification: Some hospitals may require national certification, such as the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) offered by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).
Resources:
– PTCB (Pharmacy Technician Certification Board): https://www.ptcb.org/
– American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP): https://www.ashp.org/
Community Pharmacy Setting
Community pharmacies, also known as retail pharmacies, are common locations for pharmacy technicians to complete their OJT. The certification requirements for OJT in a community pharmacy setting typically include:
1. High School Diploma or Equivalent: Similar to the hospital setting, community pharmacies often require a high school diploma or GED.
2. State Registration: Depending on your state’s regulations, you may need to register as a pharmacy technician with the appropriate regulatory body.
3. National Certification: While not always mandatory, obtaining national certification can enhance your chances of securing OJT in a community pharmacy. The PTCE is the most recognized certification exam for pharmacy technicians.
Resources:
– PTCB: https://www.ptcb.org/
– National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP): https://nabp.pharmacy/
Long-Term Care Setting
Long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes and assisted living centers, often have on-site pharmacies where pharmacy technicians can complete their OJT. The certification requirements for OJT in this setting are similar to those in a hospital or community pharmacy:
1. High School Diploma or Equivalent: A high school diploma or GED is typically required.
2. State Registration: Depending on your state’s regulations, you may need to register as a pharmacy technician with the appropriate regulatory body.
3. National Certification: Although not always mandatory, national certification can be beneficial when seeking OJT in a long-term care setting.
Resources:
– PTCB: https://www.ptcb.org/
– American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP): https://www.ascp.com/
Compounding Pharmacies and Specialty Settings
Pharmacy technicians interested in compounding pharmacies or specialty settings can also find valuable OJT opportunities. These settings may have additional requirements due to the specialized nature of their work. Certification requirements may include:
1. High School Diploma or Equivalent: A high school diploma or GED is typically required.
2. State Registration: Depending on your state’s regulations, you may need to register as a pharmacy technician with the appropriate regulatory body.
3. Specialized Training: Some compounding pharmacies and specialty settings may require additional training specific to their area of practice.
Resources:
– International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists (IACP): https://www.iacprx.org/
– Specialty Pharmacy Certification Board (SPCB): https://www.spcboard.org/
Resources for Obtaining On-the-Job Training
In addition to the specific resources mentioned above, the following organizations and websites provide valuable information and resources for obtaining OJT as a pharmacy technician:
– American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT): https://www.pharmacytechnician.com/
– State Boards of Pharmacy: Check your state’s board of pharmacy website for information on OJT opportunities and requirements.
– Local Pharmacies and Hospitals: Reach out to local pharmacies and hospitals directly to inquire about OJT programs they may offer.
Remember, completing OJT in different pharmacy settings not only provides you with practical experience but also enhances your employability as a pharmacy technician. Ensure you meet the certification requirements for your desired setting and take advantage of the available resources to kickstart your career.