Being an Army Pharmacy Technician can be a rewarding and challenging career path. As a vital member of the Army Medical Department, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of soldiers, their families, and other beneficiaries. To excel in this role, here are five ways to set yourself up for success:
Understanding the Role of an Army Pharmacy Technician
Before we dive into the ways to excel, it's essential to understand the role of an Army Pharmacy Technician. As a Pharmacy Technician, you will assist licensed pharmacists in dispensing medications, maintaining patient records, and performing administrative tasks. You will also be responsible for receiving, storing, and issuing pharmaceutical supplies, as well as maintaining inventory levels.
Developing Technical Skills
To excel as an Army Pharmacy Technician, it's crucial to develop strong technical skills. This includes:
- Familiarity with pharmacy software and systems
- Knowledge of pharmaceutical calculations and conversions
- Understanding of medication therapy management
- Ability to accurately fill prescriptions and maintain patient records
- Familiarity with inventory management and control procedures
Staying Current with Continuing Education
The field of pharmacy is constantly evolving, with new medications and technologies emerging regularly. To stay current, it's essential to participate in continuing education (CE) programs and training events. This can include:
- Attending workshops and conferences
- Participating in online CE courses
- Reading industry publications and journals
- Joining professional organizations, such as the American Association of Pharmacy Technicians (AAPT)
Building Strong Communication Skills
Effective communication is critical in any healthcare setting, and as an Army Pharmacy Technician, you will interact with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals on a daily basis. To build strong communication skills:
- Practice active listening and clarify any questions or concerns
- Use clear and concise language when communicating with patients and colleagues
- Be respectful and empathetic when interacting with patients and families
- Use non-verbal communication skills, such as body language and facial expressions, to convey empathy and understanding
Demonstrating Leadership and Teamwork
As an Army Pharmacy Technician, you will be part of a larger team that includes pharmacists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. To excel in this role, it's essential to demonstrate leadership and teamwork skills, such as:
- Volunteering for additional responsibilities and projects
- Assisting colleagues with workload and tasks
- Participating in quality improvement initiatives
- Providing feedback and suggestions for improving pharmacy operations
Maintaining Attention to Detail
Finally, attention to detail is critical in any pharmacy setting. To maintain attention to detail:
- Double-check prescriptions and patient records for accuracy
- Use checklists and protocols to ensure tasks are completed correctly
- Stay organized and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
- Report any errors or discrepancies to pharmacists or supervisors immediately
By following these five ways to excel as an Army Pharmacy Technician, you can set yourself up for success and make a positive impact on the health and well-being of soldiers, their families, and other beneficiaries.
Gallery of Army Pharmacy Technician
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of an Army Pharmacy Technician?
+An Army Pharmacy Technician assists licensed pharmacists in dispensing medications, maintaining patient records, and performing administrative tasks.
What kind of training does an Army Pharmacy Technician receive?
+Army Pharmacy Technicians receive comprehensive training in pharmacy operations, pharmaceutical calculations, and medication therapy management.
What are the benefits of being an Army Pharmacy Technician?
+Army Pharmacy Technicians receive competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for advancement and professional growth.
By following these tips and guidelines, you can excel as an Army Pharmacy Technician and make a positive impact on the health and well-being of soldiers, their families, and other beneficiaries. Remember to stay focused, work hard, and always maintain attention to detail.