The Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust is seeking motivated Band 4 Pharmacy Technicians to join their dispensary team in Prescot. This role welcomes candidates from various pharmacy backgrounds, including hospital, community, and primary care settings, especially those looking to advance in their careers. As a vital part of the pharmacy team, the pharmacy technician will play a key role in the efficient and accurate dispensing of medications to patients, supporting the Trust's commitment to high-quality patient care. Applicants must be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and possess an enhanced DBS certificate.
In this position, responsibilities will include the accurate receipt and dispensing of prescriptions, maintaining safe working practices, stock control, patient counseling regarding medication, and participation in evening and weekend service rotations. Pharmacy technicians will also be expected to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, maintain professional development, and comply with industry standards and regulations. The role involves using specific computer systems for record-keeping and data management, as well as engaging in continuous improvement initiatives within the pharmacy service.
In this position, responsibilities will include the accurate receipt and dispensing of prescriptions, maintaining safe working practices, stock control, patient counseling regarding medication, and participation in evening and weekend service rotations. Pharmacy technicians will also be expected to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, maintain professional development, and comply with industry standards and regulations. The role involves using specific computer systems for record-keeping and data management, as well as engaging in continuous improvement initiatives within the pharmacy service.
This role is suitable for Pharmacy Technicians from all areas of Pharmacy, including Hospital, Community Pharmacy, Prison service, Primary care etc.
Due to recent promotion of some of our Band 4 Pharmacy Technicians, we are looking for motivated and dedicated band 4 Pharmacy Technicians to join our dispensary team.
The role offers an exciting opportunity to be an integral part of our Pharmacy team contributing to the efficient and accurate dispensing of medicines to patients of the Trust.
The Pharmacy currently has approximately 140 staff operating across both sites, and our two main Dispensaries based at Whiston Hospital and St Helens Hospital have new Automated Dispensing Systems installed last year.
It is vital that applicants are adaptable and prepared to work with us to help us deliver the Trusts vision of 5-star patient care.
Applicants must be registered as a Pharmacy Technician with GPhC (Student Pharmacy Technicians qualifying this year may also apply). An enhanced DBS Certificate with the checking of both the Children's and Adults' Barred Lists is required for this post.
Interview Date - Week Commencing 25th November 2024
- To participate in the routine duties of a newly qualified pharmacy technician whilst undergoing a supervised probationary period (minimum 6 months) of competency based training.
- To maintain safe systems of working
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To co-operate in the provision and development of an efficient and effective pharmaceutical service.
The Pharmacy operates a 7 day service and as part of this role you will be expected to participate in the evening and weekend working rota providing both ward and dispensary services to the Trust
About us
KEY DUTIES
- To assist in the receipt of prescriptions accurately according to safe working practices.
- To dispense prescriptions accurately according to safe working practices.
- To dispense controlled drug prescriptions and record according.
- To assist in the receipt of controlled drugs.
- To assist in stock control within the pharmacy, wards, departments, and clinics.
- To transcribe information from medicines kardexes on wards and liaise with ward staff on the appropriate supply of non-stock medication.
- To order stocks and special line items to fulfil prescriptions.
- To take payment for prescriptions according to the departmental procedure.
- To maintain an accurate balance of cash in the dispensary tills and cash up at the end of the day.
- To communicate with patients regarding their own medication that they have brought into the hospital and the continuation of supply.
- To assist in the preparation and assembly of supplies for delivery to wards and departments.
- To counsel patients on the correct use of their medication and assess their understanding of the medicines and devices prescribed.
- To extemporaneously dispense medicines, occasionally using specific equipment (e.g. fume cupboards and weighing balances) and taking protective measures. Weighing and measuring must be accurate as there are narrow margins for errors.
- To assist other members of staff in the performance of their duties
- To co-operate in the provision of an efficient and cost-effective service.
- To answer phone calls and queries from patients and other health care professionals.
- To provide individual dose dispensing and blister packing services for patients who have difficulty with normal medicines packaging.
- To assist in the preparation and assembly of resuscitation and anaphylaxis boxes according to trust policy.
- To participate as necessary in weekend, evening, bank holiday and on call rotas in response to the changing needs of the service.
- To participate in the band 4 rota to the dispensary at St Helens.
CLINICAL & PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
- To work to the code of ethics and standards of practice as laid down by the General Pharmaceutical Council.
- To maintain continuing professional development.
- To maintain registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council
ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES
- To use the JAC computer system and input data responsibly and accurately, for all duties requiring its use e.g. labelling, ordering and stock control.
- To record any information and assist in the compilation of any data necessary including ordering inpatient medication, transcribing medicine kardexes to order forms (one stop dispensing sheets) accurately.
TEACHING & TRAINING RESPONSBILITIES
- To participate in individual performance review and continuing education programs in order to maintain and improve standards of service.
- To attend and participate in study days and courses as necessary.
LINE MANAGEMENT/SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
- To comply with and ensure that all other pharmacy staff under his/her control comply with the legal and other requirements related to the purchase, supply, use, safe custody and destruction of drugs both within the pharmacy and in all other areas of the trust.
RESEARCH & AUDIT
- To assist in audit research projects to improve and develop the service provision
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The National Health Service (NHS) is a cornerstone of healthcare in the United Kingdom, established in 1948 with the simple yet profound principle of providing healthcare to all citizens, free at the point of use. This revolutionary system aimed to ensure that access to medical services would not depend on an individual’s financial situation, a concept that has since become fundamental to British societal values. Learn more...
Useful skills for a Pharmacy Technician:
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To work as a Pharmacy Technician in the UK, you need a combination of educational qualifications, technical skills, and interpersonal skills. Here are the key skills and qualifications typically required:
Educational Qualifications:
1. Pharmacy Technician Diploma: You usually need to complete a Level 3 qualification in Pharmacy Services (e.g., BTEC in Pharmacy Services, City & Guilds Diploma).
2. Registration: You must register with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) to practice as a Pharmacy Technician.
Technical Skills:
1. Pharmaceutical Knowledge: A solid understanding of medications, their uses, side effects, and how they interact.
2. Dispensing Skills: Proficiency in accurately dispensing medications and managing prescriptions.
3. Health and Safety: Knowledge of health and safety regulations, particularly related to the handling of medicines.
4. Inventory Management: Skills in managing stock levels, ordering supplies, and keeping accurate records.
5. IT Skills: Competence in using pharmacy management software and other computer systems to maintain patient records and manage stock.
Interpersonal Skills:
1. Communication Skills: Ability to effectively communicate with patients and healthcare professionals. This includes explaining medication usage and addressing patient concerns.
2. Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively within a pharmacy team and with other healthcare providers.
3. Customer Service: Strong skills in providing excellent service to patients and addressing their needs in a respectful and supportive manner.
4. Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in dispensing medications and managing prescriptions.
Other Skills:
1. Problem-Solving: Ability to handle issues that may arise with prescriptions or patient concerns effectively.
2. Empathy: Understanding the needs and concerns of patients, providing them with support and reassurance.
3. Time Management: Balancing various tasks efficiently, particularly in a busy pharmacy environment.
4. Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changes in regulations, medications, and technologies.
Additional Considerations:
- Continued Professional Development: Engaging in ongoing education and training to stay updated with the latest practices and advancements in pharmacy.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with UK pharmaceutical regulations and guidelines.
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