PHM 235 Pharmacy Basics

Lecture Hours: 4
Credits: 4

Introduces the foundations of pharmacy practice, professional expectations, and drug classifications necessary for entry-level pharmacy technician work. Emphasizes understanding pharmacy workflow, drug information, dosage forms, routes of administration, prescription components, and regulatory requirements. Explores pharmacy technician roles in supporting the pharmacist, ensuring accuracy, maintaining confidentiality, and promoting patient safety.

Maximum number of credits course can be taken for: 4

Student Learning Outcomes:

Describe the roles and responsibilities of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians across various pharmacy settings. (ASHP 2.3, 1.2)
Interpret and explain the major components of a prescription or medication order, including common medical terminology, abbreviations, and SIG codes. (ASHP 3.1, 3.13)
Classify pharmaceuticals by therapeutic category and identify prototypes, routes of administration, and dosage forms. (ASHP 2.5, 3.4, 3.5)
Explain the medication-use process and describe how pharmacy technicians support the pharmacist in maintaining patient safety. (ASHP 3.1, 4.1, 4.2)
Demonstrate ethical, professional, and effective communication with patients, pharmacists, and the healthcare team. (ASHP 1.1-1.5, 1.7)
Identify regulatory, safety, and infection-control standards relevant to pharmacy operations and medication handling. (ASHP 2.2, 5.1-5.5)

Content Outline

Introduction to the Pharmacy Profession
- History and evolution of pharmacy
- Overview of pharmacy settings (community, hospital, long-term care, mail order)
- Pharmacist vs. pharmacy technician roles and responsibilities
- The Pharmacists’ Patient Care Process (PPCP)
Professionalism and Ethical Conduct
- Code of ethics, appearance, and behavior
- Time management, teamwork, and customer service
- Cultural sensitivity and communication with diverse populations
Pharmacy Terminology and Abbreviations
- Medical and pharmaceutical terminology
- Common prescription abbreviations and SIG codes
- Reading and interpreting medication orders and labels
Pharmaceutical Classifications and Drug Information
- Major therapeutic drug classes and prototypes
- Generic and brand name relationships
- Routes of administration and dosage forms
- Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics basics
- Common drug interactions and contraindications
Medication-Use Process and Safety
- Overview of the medication-use cycle
- Prescription processing and workflow stages
- Medication safety and error prevention strategies
- Introduction to quality assurance and reporting procedures
Regulatory and Compliance Foundations
- Federal and state pharmacy laws and regulations
- Controlled substances and DEA scheduling
- HIPAA confidentiality standards
- OSHA and infection-control procedures
Communication in Pharmacy Practice
- Verbal, written, and electronic communication methods
- Telephone etiquette and professional conduct
- Working effectively as part of the pharmacy team
- Customer service best practices
Technology and Documentation Basics
- Overview of pharmacy computer systems and software
- Barcoding and automated systems
- Record retention and documentation standards
- Introduction to patient profiles and data accuracy