PHM 201 Pharmacy Practice 1

Lecture Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Introduces the foundations of pharmacy practice, emphasizing prescription interpretation, workflow processes, patient profile management, pharmacy calculations, and medication safety. Focuses on developing entry-level competencies in pharmacy operations, communication, and ethical professionalism consistent with ASHP standards for patient care and technician practice.

Maximum number of credits course can be taken for: 3

Student Learning Outcomes:

Interpret and transcribe prescriptions and medication orders, including SIG codes, abbreviations, and NDC identification. (ASHP 3.1, 3.2, 3.13)
Apply accurate pharmacy mathematical calculations using ratio-proportion, dimensional analysis, and formula methods to determine dosage, compounding, and reconstitution. (ASHP 2.6, 3.15, 3.17)
Maintain accurate and confidential patient records and profiles in compliance with HIPAA and institutional policies. (ASHP 2.2, 5.1, 5.5)
Demonstrate professional and effective communication skills with patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare providers. (ASHP 1.3-1.5, 1.7)
Describe the steps of the medication-use process and the technician’s role in ensuring safety and quality within that process. (ASHP 2.3, 3.1, 4.1, 4.2)

Content Outline

Pharmacy Profession and Roles
- Pharmacy settings and workflow
- Pharmacist vs. technician responsibilities
- The Pharmacists’ Patient Care Process (PPCP)
Prescription Components and Interpretation
- Prescription and medication order parts
- SIG codes, abbreviations, and NDC number structure
- Labeling and documentation accuracy
Pharmacy Calculations and Measurements
- Roman numerals, metric/apothecary conversions
- Ratio-proportion, formula, and dimensional analysis
- Dosage, reconstitution, and compounding math
Patient Profiles and Recordkeeping
- Collecting demographic and allergy data
- Confidentiality and HIPAA compliance
Professionalism and Communication
- Effective communication and teamwork
- Ethical behavior and customer interaction
- Time management and stress management