02/01/1984 32700

PHARMACY ASSISTANT

DEFINITION: This is non-professional work performed in the pharmacy of a state facility.

An employee in this class performs a variety of non-professional pharmacy tasks under supervision of a registered pharmacist. Work includes assisting in the preparation of various pharmaceutical preparations, including the packaging and labeling of individual or bulk prescriptions. Work also includes the maintenance of pharmaceutical supply stocks and the performance of related housekeeping duties. Supervision is received from a professional pharmacist who reviews all work in accordance with prescribed practices and procedures.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Assists the pharmacist in preparation of various pharmaceutical preparations by measuring and weighing components and mixing ointments.

Fills capsules, tablet boxes and bottles, and types labels under supervision of the pharmacist.

Takes inventories and prepares requisitions for the purchase of drugs, chemicals, antibiotics, biologicals, and pharmaceutical preparations and maintains records in connection therewith.

Checks, stores and dispenses pharmaceutical supplies; maintains a card file record of requisitions and purchases.

Maintains a record of narcotic and hypnotic drugs and alcohol used by each department in hospital.

Cleans and sterilizes bottles and glassware returned from wards.

Maintains work area in a clean and orderly condition.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of non-professional hospital pharmacy operations and equipment.

Knowledge of usual dose or dose ranges, generic and brand drug names, and the abbreviations and symbols commonly used in the prescribing and dispensing of drugs.

Knowledge of the proper methods of storing various drugs and medications.

Knowledge of inventory and control procedures.

Ability to perform necessary mathematical calculations used in the packaging of correct dosages.

Ability to perform cleaning and housekeeping work for the pharmacy.

Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Ability to perform related clerical tasks.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year of experience assisting a licensed pharmacist in the preparation and dispensing of medications in a hospital pharmacy.

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Any equivalent combination of experience and training.