NPTA RSS Feed

IV Certification Course on 6-Feb-12 8:00 AM

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:00:00 GMT

IV Certification Course
Start Date: 6-Feb-12 8:00 AM
End Time: 7-Feb-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Course Details
The course requirements include:
- 9 Home Study Modules
- 2 Days Hands-On Training
- 8 Process Technique Validations

>>Complete Learning Objectives

How the Course Works
Participants must complete nine separate modules of home-based learning, comprised of a reading assignment and comprehensive exam. A score of 70% or higher is required for each exam. After completing the home-based study modules, participants attend and complete NPTA’s two-day Sterile Product Training Institute, located at the NPTA Training Institute in Houston, Texas.

Home Study Modules
- Introduction to Sterile Products
- Facilities, Garb & Equipment
- Aseptic Calculations
- Properties of Sterile Products
- Aseptic Technique
- Sterile Product Preparations
- Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN)
- Chemotherapy
- Quality Control and Assurance

Training & Technique Validations
- Aseptic Hand Washing
- Horizontal Laminar Airflow Hood Care
- Vertical Laminar Airflow Hood Care
- Vial Manipulations
- Ampule Manipulations
- Hazardous Vial Manipulations
- Hazardous Ampule Manipulations
- TPN Compounding

Tuition Fee
$648 Members
$698 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

What's Included
Tuition includes: Sterile Products textbook by Pearson Education, official course binder, two day hands-on training institute, lunch/snacks on both training days, use of laboratory equipment and supplies, statement of CE credit and an Official Certificate of Validated Training, upon successful completion.

CPE Credits
40.0 Contact Hours/4.0 CEU
Program Type: Practice
UAN No. 384-000-08-072-H05-T
Same as ACPE No. 384-000-05-072-H04-T
This program was released November 1, 2005 and Re-released November 2, 2008.

NPTA Training Institute

Chemo Certification Course on 8-Feb-12 9:00 AM

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:00:00 GMT

Chemo Certification Course
Start Date: 8-Feb-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 8-Feb-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Prerequisite

Participants must meet one or more of the following requirements:

Successful completion or current enrollment in NPTA's IV Certification Course
Successful completion of an ACPE-accredited course on sterile products/asepectic technique
40 contact hours or more, including both didactic and hands-on training (documentation required)
600 hours (or more) of practical experience in aseptic technique/preparing sterile products over the past twelve months. (documentation and a signed letter of attestation from the pharmacy director required)

Target Audience

- Certified Pharmacy Technicians
- Pharmacy Technician Students
- Pharmacists

Course Details
The course requirements include:
- 10 Home Study Modules
- 1 Days Hands-On Training
- 5 Process Technique Validations

>>Complete Learning Objectives

How the Course Works
Participants must complete ten separate modules of home-based learning, comprised of a reading assignment and comprehensive exams. A score of 70% or higher is required for each exam. After completing the home-based study modules, participants attend and complete NPTA’s one-day Hazardous Drugs Training Institute, located at the NPTA Training Institute in Houston, Texas.

Home Study Modules
- What are Hazardous Drugs
- ASHP and Other Guidelines
- Receipt, Storage, Labeling & Transport
- Risk Assessment, Controls & Medical Surveillance
- Biological Safety Cabinets
- Isolators
- Personal Protective Equipment
- Aseptic Technique
- Decontamination, Waste Disposal & Spill Control
- Comprehensive Final Exam

Training & Technique Validations
- Aseptic Hand Washing & Garbing
- Decontamination & Deactivation of a BSC
- Hazardous Liquid Vial Manipulations
- Hazardous Powder Vial Manipulation
- Hazardous Ampule Manipulations

Tuition Fee
$498 Members
$598 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

What's Included
Tuition includes: Safe Handling of Hazardous Drugs textbook by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, online course content access, one day of hands-on training/validations, lunch/snacks on training day, use of laboratory equipment and supplies, statement of CE credit and an Official Certificate of Validated Training, upon successful completion.

NPTA Training Institute

Compounding Certification Course on 9-Feb-12 9:00 AM

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 15:00:00 GMT

Compounding Certification Course
Start Date: 9-Feb-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 10-Feb-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Course Details
The course requirements include:
- 10 Home Study Modules with Exams
- 2 Days Hands-On Training

How the Course Works
Participants must complete eleven separate modules of home-based learning, comprised of a reading assignment and comprehensive exam. A score of 70% or higher is required for each exam. After completing the home-based study modules, participants attend and complete NPTA’s two-day Pharmaceutical Compounding Training Institute, located at the NPTA Training Institute in Houston, Texas.

Home Study Modules
- Introduction to Compounding/Compounding Practices & Considerations
- Facilities, Equipment & Supplies
- Quality Assurance & Record Keeping
- Capsules, Tablets & Powders
- Lozenges, Troches, Sticks & Suppositories
- Solutions, Suspensions & Emulsions
- Ointments, Creams, Pastes & Gels
- Ophthalmic, Otic & Nasal Preparations
- Medication Flavoring
- Veterinary Compounding

Hands-On Training Labs
- Capsules
- Carbomer Gels
- Creams
- Gelatin Troches
- Lip Balms
- Medicated Lollipops
- PEG Troches
- PLO Gels
- Solutions
- Suspensions
- Suppositories
- Tablet Triturates
- Coloring/Flavoring
- Quality Assurance Methods
- Record Keeping

Tuition Fee
$648 NPTA Members
$698 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

What's Included

Tuition includes: Compounding textbook by Pearson Education, official course binder, two day hands-on training institute, lunch/snacks on both training days, use of laboratory equipment and supplies, statement of CE credit and an Official Certificate of Validated Training, upon successful completion.

CPE Credits
40.0 Contact Hours/4.0 CEU
Program Type: Activity
UAN No. 384-000-09-072-H04-T
384-000-09-072-H04-P
This program was released March 12, 2009.

Same as: 384-000-06-070-H04 (Released April 1, 2006)

NPTA Training Institute

IV Certfication Course on 20-Feb-12 9:00 AM

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 15:00:00 GMT

IV Certfication Course
Start Date: 20-Feb-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 21-Feb-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Tuition Fee
$648 Members
$698 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

NPTA Training Institute

Chemo Certification Course on 22-Feb-12 9:00 AM

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:00:00 GMT

Chemo Certification Course
Start Date: 22-Feb-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 22-Feb-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Prerequisite

Participants must meet one or more of the following requirements:

Successful completion or current enrollment in NPTA's IV Certification Course
Successful completion of an ACPE-accredited course on sterile products/asepectic technique
40 contact hours or more, including both didactic and hands-on training (documentation required)
600 hours (or more) of practical experience in aseptic technique/preparing sterile products over the past twelve months. (documentation and a signed letter of attestation from the pharmacy director required)

Target Audience

Tuition Fee
$498 Members
$598 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

NPTA Training Institute

Compounding Certification Course on 23-Feb-12 9:00 AM

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 15:00:00 GMT

Compounding Certification Course
Start Date: 23-Feb-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 24-Feb-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Please note: This course is non-refundable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

What's Included

NPTA Training Institute

IV Certification Course on 5-Mar-12 9:00 AM

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:00:00 GMT

IV Certification Course
Start Date: 5-Mar-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 6-Mar-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Tuition Fee
$648 Members
$698 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

NPTA Training Institute

Chemo Certification Course on 7-Mar-12 9:00 AM

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 15:00:00 GMT

Chemo Certification Course
Start Date: 7-Mar-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 7-Mar-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Prerequisite

Participants must meet one or more of the following requirements:

Successful completion or current enrollment in NPTA's IV Certification Course
Successful completion of an ACPE-accredited course on sterile products/asepectic technique
40 contact hours or more, including both didactic and hands-on training (documentation required)
600 hours (or more) of practical experience in aseptic technique/preparing sterile products over the past twelve months. (documentation and a signed letter of attestation from the pharmacy director required)

Target Audience

Tuition Fee
$498 Members
$598 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

NPTA Training Institute

Compounding Certification Course on 8-Mar-12 9:00 AM

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 15:00:00 GMT

Compounding Certification Course
Start Date: 8-Mar-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 9-Mar-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Please note: This course is non-refundable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

What's Included

NPTA Training Institute

IV Certification Course on 19-Mar-12 9:00 AM

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 14:00:00 GMT

IV Certification Course
Start Date: 19-Mar-12 9:00 AM
End Time: 20-Mar-12 5:00 PM
Location: NPTA Training Institute, 15832 W. Hardy, Suite 640, Houston, Tx 77060
Speaker: NPTA Faculty

Event Details:

Tuition Fee
$648 Members
$698 Non-Members

Please note: This course is non-refundable and non-transferable.

Rescheduling is subject to a $250 change fee and is based on availability.

NPTA Training Institute

Edgemont Pharmaceuticals Introduces Fluoxetine 60 mg Tablets

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Pharmacy Technicians should be aware of common and not so common dosages of most medications. They should also be able to identify medications on site to avoid medication errors. Recently, Edgemont Pharmaceuticals announced a new Fluoxetine 60 mg tablet for patients who take the drug in 30 mg and 60 mg doses. Fluoxetine is the generic form of the SSRI Prozac. Original Prozac drug makers Eli Lilly received final approval and marketing rights for Prozac from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 1987. In August 2001, Fluoxetine was no longer under a patent and could then be manufactured in generic forms. Fluoxetine is used in the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Bulimia Nervosa, and panic disorder. Additionally, Fluoxetine is also used in the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder in children and adolescents from ages 8 to 18 years and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in children and adolescents from ages 7 to 17 years. Prozac is one of the oldest and most widely prescribed antidepressants still prescribed today by doctors.

Early treatment is essential in the treatment of mental illnesses. Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians should encourage those suffering from a mental illness to seek treatment early on. Pharmacy Technicians can also inform and educate those who take antidepressants on the pros, cons, side-effects, and other treatment options available to those who suffer from various mental illnesses. No one should be left to feel alone.

Sources:

1. “Introducing Single Tablet Dosing: Fluoxetine 60 mg tables.” Edgemont Pharmaceuticals Press Release. Date of Access: January 26^th, 2012. www.edgemontpharma.com/fluoxetine-tablets-60mg.html.

2. “Wikipedia: Fluoxetine.” Date of Access: February 1^st, 2012. www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/fluoxetine.

3-Feb-12 8:00 AM

Type 2 Diabetes Drug gets FDA Approval

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:15:00 GMT

According to a recent article published by RXList.com, the first Type 2 Diabetes drug has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Bydureon, a weekly shot available to Type 2 Diabetes patients can be given twice daily via injection and is a long acting form of the drug Byetta. Bydureon works by stimulating pancreas cells to produce insulin when blood sugar is too elevated. There are two other ways Type 2 Diabetes patients can control their condition along with injectable Bydureon – diet and exercise. This is the third time the FDA has considered the diabetes drug for approval. Previous concerns over Bydureon and possible risk of heart problems kept the drug from being approved sooner by the FDA. Along with the new approval Alkermes PLC and Amylin Pharmaceuticals Inc, will now conduct studies to investigate whether certain doses of Bydureon increases the risk of heart problems in diabetes patients. Based on tests completed in a 24-week period Bydureon showed patient’s improvement with high blood sugar levels in one dose per week.

Every drug has potential side-effects. The study discovered the following side-effects in people who were injected with Bydureon: nausea, diarrhea, headache, vomiting, constipation, and indigestion. Itching at the injection site and a small bump at the injection site were also reported side-effects. “New treatment options are essential for the millions of adults with Type 2 Diabetes who continue to struggle to achieve optimal blood sugar control” said John Buse, M.D., Ph.D, professor of medicine and director of the Diabetes Care Center and chief of the Division of Endocrinology at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine in Chapel Hill.

Sources:

1. Amylin Pharmaceuticals Press Release. “FDA Approves Bydureon: The first and only once-weekly treatment for Type 2 Diabetes.” January 27^th, 2012. Date of access: January 31^st, 2012. http://www.amylin.com/news/press-releases/

2. Mann, Denise. “Weekly Shot Gets FDA Nod for Type 2 Diabetes.” January 27^th, 2012. Date of access: January 30^th, 2012. http://www.rxlist.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=154145

2-Feb-12 9:15 AM

February is American Heart Month

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:00:00 GMT

According to the Centers for Disease Control heart disease is the number one cause of death in the United States. February is American Heart Month and the CDC and American Heart Association want Pharmacy Technicians to be informed of the signs of a heart attack so they can educate customers who come to the pharmacy about heart attack signs and risk factors. Many things can be done to prevent heart disease and heart attacks. Certain risk factors can increase the risk of heart disease such as high cholesterol, elevated blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, tobacco use, unhealthy diet, sedentary lifestyle, and second hand smoke.

Knowing heart attack signs and symptoms can help save patients lives. The number one sign of a heart attack is chest discomfort. Other signs include pain in one arm or both arms, pain in the back, neck, jaw, or stomach. Signs of breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, dizziness, and lightheadedness can also occur. Eating a balanced and healthy diet, maintaining a fitness plan, and reducing stress can also help in the prevention of heart disease and heart attacks. Certain medications designed to lower cholesterol can also help keep cholesterol levels in check. Monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels are also important things to monitor on a regular basis. Many pharmacies have a blood pressure machine where individuals can check their blood pressure for free. Pharmacy Technicians can inform their customers of heart attack risk factors and what they can do to stay healthy to avoid heart disease.

31-Jan-12 8:00 AM

Primatene Mist Bronchodilator No Longer Available

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Primatene Mist bronchodilators have been the only over the counter inhaler available for some time for those suffering from asthma and allergic asthma. Customers wishing to purchase the product will find pharmacy shelves empty with only Primatene and Bronkaid pills available. As a Pharmacy Technician you may wonder why the inhaler was removed from shelves as of December 31^st, 2011. Makers removed the inhaler due to CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons) included in the ingredients as these chemicals can harm and damage the environment. Primatene Mist was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the short-term use and treatment of asthma and allergic asthma symptoms. Currently, the FDA is advising individuals to switch to another asthma medicine and advised consumers to do so before the inhaler was pulled from pharmacy shelves in December. As far as over the counter products pharmacy technicians will see Bronkaid pills and Primatene pills still on the market. Healthcare professionals and consumers should be aware of web sites selling Primatene Mist and pharmacies still carrying the product. There are a few sites still selling the product and doing so at inflated prices. Such price inflation should be reported to the FDA and consumer protection groups. According to various pharmacies in the New Orleans Metro area it is illegal to stock the inhaler on pharmacy shelves and sell it to customers. For more information on Primatene Mist please visit www.primatene.com and the Food and Drug Administration web site by going to http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm247196.htm.

26-Jan-12 8:00 AM

Pharmaceutical Industry Still Up In Arms Over Disposal of Unused Medication

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:00:00 GMT

The pharmaceutical industry continues to be up in arms concerning the disposal of prescription medication. Some politicians have suggested that a medicine take-back program will not solve the problem of what to do with old meds and will not solve the issue of addiction. With all of the bantering going on the war on illegal drug use and abuse continues. In addition, stockpiles of medication continue to mount up as patients keep old meds in their medicine cabinet or dresser drawers.

The best way to dispose of medications is to get rid of them through a medicine take-back program. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a medicine take-back program is a program in which unwanted, expired, or unused medications can be disposed of properly. Some medications can be disposed of from home, but the chance of someone obtaining the medication after it has been disposed of is a possibility. Local and county government household and trash recycling services can inform consumers of what services are available to assist them in the removal of medications. If there are no take-back programs in a patient’s area they should ask their pharmacist or pharmacy technician how they should dispose of their medication. There are certain ways particular medications need to be properly disposed of. Pharmacists and technicians can advise patients how to properly dispose of drugs so they will not prove harmful to others, animals, and environment.

Sources:

1. “FDA: Disposal of unused medicines: What you should know.” Date of access: January 23^rd, 2012. http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/ResourcesForYou/Consumers/BuyingUsingMedicineSafely/EnsuringSafeUseofMedicine/SafeDisposalofMedicines/ucm186188.htm

2. Silverman, Ed. “Pharma fights effort to dispose of unused meds.” Date of access: January 23^rd, 2012. http://www.pharmalot.com/2012/01/pharma-fights-effort-to-dispose-of-unused-meds/

23-Jan-12 2:00 PM

Signs and symptoms of Type 2 diabetes

Jennifer O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 21:00:00 GMT

Recently, Food Network Star Paula Deen was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. She will now have to change her diet, lifestyle, and will need to monitor her insulin level daily. Deen will also need to alter some of her famous recipes as well. Knowing how to recognize diabetes and its symptoms are important to patient’s health and well-being. The good side to this story is that she was able to catch her diagnosis early on. There are some tell tale signs Pharmacy Technicians should be aware of concerning Type 2 diabetes. Being aware of these signs and symptoms, technicians can inform and educate patients so their customers can get a better hold on their condition.

According to WebMD, a third of people who have Type 2 Diabetes are now aware that they have it. Symptoms of type 2 Diabetes as a result of elevated blood sugar can include: increased thirst, increased hunger (can increase after eating), dry mouth, frequent urination, unexpected weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, headaches, and possible loss of consciousness. Loss of consciousness can occur, but is generally rare. Being aware of the signs and symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes will decreases the chances of patients having serious complications later on. With proper education, treatment, and understanding patients can live a long and healthy life.

19-Jan-12 3:00 PM

January is Cervical Cancer Month

Jennifer S. O'Reilly - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 20:00:00 GMT

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and NPTA wants Pharmacy Technicians to be aware of this very crucial month. According to the Centers for disease control and prevention cervical cancer is preventable with vaccines, routine screening tests, and follow-up care. The CDC also advises that cervical cancer is curable if discovered and treated early. Once the cancer is detected patients should seek treatment options right away. Cancer can spread quickly and starting treatment early is crucial to getting getting and staying well.

Cervical Cancer is generally common in women over ages 30, but all women are susceptible to cervical cancer. Women age 21 should get regular Pap smear tests. Young women can begin getting vaccinated as early as age 11 or 12. The Pap smear tests seek precancers and the HPV tests seek viruses that can cause precancers. Depending on patients insurance - tests, vaccines, and treatment are covered. There are also programs designed to assist those who have low income in obtaining healthcare needed to prevent cervical cancer. Patients should ask their doctor, pharmacist, or pharmacy tech what programs are available to assist low income patients. Remember that early detection is key in preventing Cervical Cancer. To learn more about Cervical Cancer, treatments, and prevention, go to the CDC web site at http://www.cdc.gov/Features/CervicalCancer.

15-Jan-12 2:00 PM

Special Message from NPTA

MIKE JOHNSTON - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 15:17:28 GMT

Untitled Document

Happy National Pharmacy Technician Day!

From all of us here at NPTA, we just want to send a special thank you for all that you do every day to help American feel better.

As a token of our appreciation, we would like to offer a FREE 2 Hour Law CE to you. To access the free online course (available through 11-25-11) or to download the official logo or poster for National Pharmacy Technician Day - go to http://www.pharmacytechnician.org/PTday/

Enjoy your special day!
- NPTA Staff

Stay up to date with our RSS feeds.

25-Oct-11 10:17 AM

CPE Activity Announcement: Medication Reconciliation for Pharmacy Technicians

MIKE JOHNSTON - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Medication Reconciliation for Pharmacy Technicians
By Lezlie Cohn-Oswald, CPhT

This KNOWLEDGE-BASED activity is accredited for 2.0 contact hours.

ACPE UAN: 0384-0000-11-016-H04-T
0384-0000-11-016-L04-T

Release Date: October 14, 2011 Expiration Date: October 14, 2014

Target Audience: Certified Pharmacy Technicians (CPhTs) working in contemporary pharmacy practice settings

Fees: This activity is included in the registration fee for RxPO 2011.
For individuals who did not register for RxPO 2011, the fee for this activity is $15 for members of NPTA or $25 for non-members.

Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this activity, participants should be able to:

define and describe the concept of medication reconciliation;
identify the information required for a complete medication reconciliation;
explain how pharmacy technicians can be utilized for medication reconciliation in any workstie

About the Faculty: Lezlie Cohn-Oswald, CPhT
Lezlie has been a pharmacy technician for 28 years and has been an advanced practice clinical pharmacy technician since 1998. She developed and is the Associate Director of the Pharmacy Technician Externship Program at the VASLCHCS. Lezlie serves as the Technician Board Member of her local ASHP affiliate and was a member of the Technician Committee for ASHP from 2007-2010.

Lezlie disclosed having no conflicts of interest for this CPE activity.

To Obtain Credit for this Activity:
For 0384-0000-11-016-H04-T(on demand version)
Participants must view the program in its entirety, complete and pass the learning assessment quiz with a score of 70% or higher. Participants whom score 69% or below will be notified and permitted to retake the exam one time at no additional charge. Upon passing the learning assessment quiz, participants will receive a statement of credit, available online immediately. An online activity evaluation form will be emailed to each participant.

For 0384-0000-11-016-L04-T (live version)
Participants must view the program in its entirety, then complete an online evaluation form. Upon completing the evaluation form, instructions will be provided on how to access a statement of credit, available online immediately.

The National Pharmacy Technician Association, Inc. (NPTA) is accredited by
the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) as a provider of
continuing pharmacy education.

26-Sep-11 7:00 PM

CPE Activity Announcement: Understanding the Business of Pharmacy

MIKE JOHNSTON - noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Understanding the Business of Pharmacy
By Wendy Meigs, RPh

This KNOWLEDGE-BASED activity is accredited for 1.0 contact hours.

ACPE UAN: 0384-0000-11-012-H04-T
0384-0000-11-012-L04-T

Release Date: October 16, 2011 Expiration Date: October 16, 2014

Target Audience: Certified Pharmacy Technicians (CPhTs) working in contemporary pharmacy practice settings

Learning Objectives:
At the conclusion of this activity, participants should be able to:

identify key areas in which pharmacy technicians can contribute to cost reduction or cost savings;
identify key areas in which pharmacy technicians can contribute to revenue generation or net profit improvement;
explain how economic environmental factors can impact pharmacy operations, as well as pharmacy technician hour/wages/benefits;
identify how pharmacy technicians can become a more valuable and prized asset from teh business perspective of pharmacy.

About the Faculty: Wendy Meigs, RPh
Wendy has practiced in pharmacy for 26 years; three years as a pharmacy technician and 23 years as a licensed pharmacist.She has practiced in community, institutional, home care and infusion pharmacy settings. Wendy is certified in pharmaceutical compounding, respiratory medications and as a pedorthist. Wendy serves as a member of NPTA's Board of Directors as well as the Vice-President of Professional Affairs. Her participation within NPTA's leadership structure provides insight, collaboration and feedback that is invaluable...as pharmacy moves to a more collaborative profession.

Wendy disclosed having no conflicts of interest for this CPE activity.

To Obtain Credit for this Activity:
For 0384-0000-11-012-H04-T(on demand version)
Participants must view the program in its entirety, complete and pass the learning assessment quiz with a score of 70% or higher. Participants whom score 69% or below will be notified and permitted to retake the exam one time at no additional charge. Upon passing the learning assessment quiz, participants will receive a statement of credit, available online immediately. An online activity evaluation form will be emailed to each participant.

For 0384-0000-12-012-L04-T (live version)
Participants must view the program in its entirety, then complete an online evaluation form. Upon completing the evaluation form, instructions will be provided on how to access a statement of credit, available online immediately.

The National Pharmacy Technician Association, Inc. (NPTA) is accredited by
the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) as a provider of
continuing pharmacy education.

26-Sep-11 7:00 PM

Register for our Nationwide Online Conference

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 18:04:12 GMT

A live, online conference that will empower you to become
more effective in your role as a pharmacy technician.

How Has NPTA Made A Difference For You?

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 16:57:00 GMT

Tell us your story of how NPTA is helping you

for your chance to win an iPad!

Become A Pharmacy Technician at Home with NPTA

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 14:19:41 GMT

The pharmacy technician career path is quickly evolving and is in great demand across the U.S.

Advance Your Career

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 14:17:28 GMT

NPTA offers advanced certification programs for chemo, sterile products (IVs) and compounding.

***Home Page - Current NEWS

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 14:47:25 GMT

more news...

Check Out the NPTA Blog HERE

***Home Page - NPTA Events

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 20:59:25 GMT

IV Certification* March 19-20 April 16-17 April 23-24 May 7-8 May 19-20 [Weekend Date] May 21-22 ...more dates Compounding Certification* Feb. 23-24 March 8-9 March 22-23 April 19-20 April 26-27 ...more dates Chemo Certification* Feb. 22 March 7 March 21 April 18 April 25 ,,more dates * DATES SHOWN MAY BE FULL

Chemo Certification

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 17:12:17 GMT

NPTA's Chemo Certification Course has been designed to train pharmacy professionals on the proper handling of hazardous drugs. Most health-system pharmacy settings require Chemo/Hazardous Drug Certification and/or prior experience for employment consideration. This course is designed to meet all applicable State Board of Pharmacy training requirements for Chemo Certification. Click Here to Request More Information Prerequisite Target Audience - Certified Pharmacy Technicians - Pharmacy Technician Students - Pharmacists Course Details The course requirements include: - 10 Home Study Modules - 1 Days Hands-On Training - 5 Process Technique Validations >>Complete Learning Objectives How the Course Works Participants must complete ten separate modules of home-based learning, comprised of a reading assignment and comprehensive exams. A score of 70% or higher is required for each...

**Home Page - CE Courses

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:05:39 GMT


Medication Errors Update - How Can the Pharmacy Technician Help Pain Management through the Use of Analgesics	Regulations, Restrictions, and Resources:Federal Law and Pharmacy Practice The ABC's of Hepatitis: Epidemiology, Prevention and Treatment of Viral Hepatitis

Online CE

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:01:53 GMT

Note: If you are an NPTA Member - you already have a Username and Password established for the website. Your initial Username is your NPTA Member ID Number and your initial Password is your 5 digit postal code. After logging in, you may change either your Username and/or Password. How Does Online CE Work? - click here Course Title Hrs. ACPE # Price LAW Medication Errors Update - How Can the Pharmacy Technician Help 2 0384-0000-11-019-H05-T FREE -Mem $15.00 -Non Pain Management Through the Use of Analgesics 2 0384-0000-11-009-H01-T FREE -Mem $15.00 -Non Pharmacy Technicians and the Law: Scope of Responsibilities and Liability 2 0384-0000-11-008-H03-T ...

IV Certification

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:10:35 GMT

NPTA's Sterile Product Certification Course has been designed to train pharmacy technicians on the topic of sterile product preparation and aseptic technique, including USP <797>. Most health-system pharmacy settings require IV certification and/or prior experience for employment consideration. This course is designed to meet all applicable State Board of Pharmacy training requirements for IV Certified Pharmacy Technicians! Click Here to Request More Information Click Here for 2012 Dates Target Audience - Certified Pharmacy Technicians - Pharmacy Technicians - Pharmacy Technician Students Course Details The course requirements include: - 9 Home Study Modules - 2 Days Hands-On Training - 8 Process Technique Validations >>Complete Learning Objectives How the Course Works Participants must complete nine separate modules of home-based learning, comprised of a...

Compounding Certification

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 22:13:06 GMT

NPTA's Compounding Certification Course has been designed to train pharmacy technicians on the topic of extemporaneous, non-sterile pharmaceutical compounding. Extemporaneous pharmaceutical compounding is both an art and a science. Advanced career path options are available for pharmacy technicians with a comprehensive knowledge of compounding and experience with the latest equipment, techniques and methods. This program offers both! Click Here for More Information Target Audience - Certified Pharmacy Technicians - Pharmacy Technician Students - Pharmacists Course Details The course requirements include: - 10 Home Study Modules with Exams - 2 Days Hands-On Training How the Course Works Participants must complete eleven separate modules of home-based learning, comprised of a reading assignment and comprehensive exam. A score of 70% or higher is required for each exam. After completing the home-based study modules,...

Order Back Issues

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 18:21:32 GMT

To Order Back Issues - click here Volume 8 Issue 1 Issue 2 Out of Stock Issue 3 Issue 4 Issue 5 Issue 6 Volume 7 Issue 1 Out of Stock Issue 2 Out of Stock Issue 3 Issue 4 Volume 6 Issue 1 Issue 2 Issue 3 Issue 4 Issue 5 Out of Stock Issue 6 Out of Stock Volume 5 Issue 1Out of Stock Issue 2 Out of Stock Issue 3 Issue 4 Issue 5 Issue 6 Volume 4 Issue 1 Issue 2 Issue 3 Issue 4 Issue 5 Volume 3 Issue 1 Issue 2 Issue 3 Issue 4 Issue 5 ...

National Pharmacy Technician Day 2011

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 19:10:39 GMT

October 25, 2011 Download A Poster or the Official Logo Click on a link below to download/print your own Pharmacy Technician Day Poster! For larger posters, take the file to Kinkos. Poster - 8.5 x 11 Poster - 11x17 Poster - 16x20 Click on a link below for the logo. You can add it to your Facebook profile, etc. Logo - Tiny Logo - Small Logo - Med. Logo - Large Our Gift to You - FREE Law CE worth 2.0 contact hours As our special gift to pharmacy technicians, the 2-hour law CE Pharmacy Technicians and the Law: Scope of Responsibilities and Liability, will be available FREE to both NPTA members and non-members until November 25, 2011! -Click here to take the course. Tips to Celebrate Pharmacy...

Annual Meeting

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 15:49:59 GMT

Conference registration for new attendees is now closed. If you are a paid conference participant, please use the link to the Conference Attendee Hub, which was sent to you via e-mail.

RxPO 2007

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 18:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Attendee feedback and comments only allows NPTA and RxPO to better serve your needs at future events.

Release Date: 16-Oct-07 1:00 PM
Expiration Date: 14-Jan-08 1:00 PM

Share your thoughts with us on RxPO 2007.

Peer Training/Education

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Objectives: What is the one thing you feel your coworkers need training in to make the pharmacy service better?

Release Date: 5-Jul-07 9:00 PM
Expiration Date: 3-Oct-07 9:00 PM
Please complete the following survey by answering questions and then include your name, city and state. Select responses will be published in an upcoming issue of Today's Technician magazine.

Peer Training/Education

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Release Date: 5-Jul-07 9:00 PM
Expiration Date: 3-Oct-07 9:00 PM
Please complete the following survey by answering questions and then include your name, city and state. Select responses will be published in an upcoming issue of Today's Technician magazine.

Law Interest

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Objectives: Plese complete the following survey by answering the questions then include your name, city and state. Select responses will be published in an upcoming issue of Today's Technician magazine.

Release Date: 5-Jul-07 9:00 PM
Expiration Date: 3-Oct-07 9:00 PM

Topics Request

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 02:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Release Date: 5-Jul-07 9:00 PM
Expiration Date: 3-Oct-07 9:00 PM
Please complete the following survey by answering the questions and then include your name, city and state. Select responses will be published in an upcoming issue of Today's Technician magazine.

Consumer Survey

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Sun, 06 May 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Objectives: The goal of this survey is to obtain feedback from consumers on NPTA's recommendations for improving patient safety through standardized regulations for pharmacy technicians.

Release Date: 6-May-07 10:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Dec-07 10:00 AM
Please complete the entire survey.

Pharmacy Professional Survey

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Wed, 02 May 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Objectives: The goal of this survey is to obtain feedback from pharmacy professionals on NPTA's recommendations for improving patient safety through standardized regulations for pharmacy technicians.

Release Date: 2-May-07 11:00 AM
Expiration Date: 31-Dec-07 11:00 AM
Please complete the entire survey.

CPhT to CPhT 8.1/8.2

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Tue, 03 Apr 2007 19:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Select responses of this survey will be published in CPhT to CPhT - Practical Advice for Pharmacy Technicians in Volume 8 Issues 1 and 2 of Today's Technician Magazine.

Release Date: 3-Apr-07 2:00 PM
Expiration Date: 2-Jul-07 2:00 PM

1. Number and answer each question in the space provided.

2. Please include your name, city and state to be considered for publication.

CPhT to CPhT Vol 8 Issue 1

noemail@pharmacytechnician.org — Fri, 23 Mar 2007 18:00:00 GMT

Objectives:

Release Date: 23-Mar-07 1:00 PM
Expiration Date: 21-Jun-07 1:00 PM
Please complete the following survey by answering all four questions and then include your name, city and state. Select responses will be published in an upcoming issue of Today's Technician magazine.

CPhT 2 CPhT V7.4

Pharmacy Technicians and the Law: Scope of Responsibilities and Liability

2011-06-30T05:00:00Z

Instructor: Christina M. Nunemacher, R.Ph.

Idea in Brief: Because technicians play a central role in medication dispensing, they must be armed with the latest information regarding the laws which regulate the profession. This article reviews the legal principles which guide the pharmacy technician's liability and broadening scope of practice. Idea in Practice: After completing this continuing education program, pharmacy technicians will have a better understanding of the legal regulations which govern pharmacy practice and be better prepared to guard against potential liability issues. Job opportunities for pharmacy technicians are expected to increase 31 percent by 2018. This increase coincides with the changing role of the pharmacy technician in the health care setting. As pharmacists make the transition into more direct patient care, pharmacy technicians are poised to accept a greater role in the dispensing process.<1>Because no national standard of training or regulation currently exists for pharmacy technicians, they must be especially prepared to understand the legal framework of their practice. Job Responsibilities Case Study #1: It is lunchtime at a busy retail pharmacy. The pharmacist on duty has stepped out for a 30 minute lunch break. There is a certified pharmacy technician and a cashier staffing the pharmacy. A physician calls and wants to leave a prescription for one of his patients. When the technician informs him that the pharmacist has stepped out, the physician becomes angry and states he doesn't have time to wait. He insists on dictating the prescription to one of the technicians. What is the technician's responsibility in this case? Duties that pharmacy technicians may and may not perform on the job vary widely between the states. In the example above, the technician has a responsibility to act according to the state law where she works. Although some states will allow a technician to accept verbal prescriptions over the phone, many do not. Pharmacy technicians must always consult the pharmacy laws for the state in which they practice in order to determine what types of tasks they may and may not perform. The State Board of Pharmacy has the most current information regarding state laws. If state law prohibits the technician in the above example from accepting a verbal prescription, she must inform the physician that she cannot take the prescription and offer to have the pharmacist contact the physician at a convenient time. In addition to state laws that may govern a technician's job duties, each employer may also provide a list of specific job duties and responsibilities. These duties may vary depending on the employer and work setting. Although an employer cannot require a technician to perform any activity that is prohibited by state law, the employer can provide a list of duties that is more restrictive. For instance, if state law allows technicians to transfer prescriptions, the employer may choose to establish a policy that forbids this activity. For this reason, it is important for pharmacy technicians to determine what duties they are expected to perform during the course of their job. Case Study #2: A customer comes to the pharmacy counter and asks the pharmacy technician which pain reliever she should give to her five-month-oldson. The customer tells the technician that she is in a hurry. The pharmacist is on the phone assisting another customer. The pharmacy technician knows that the pharmacist always recommends a certain brand of pain reliever for children. How should the technician respond to the waiting customer? In the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) White Paper on Pharmacy Technicians, a pharmacy technician is described as one who assists in pharmacy activities that do not require the professional judgment of the pharmacist.<2>Although historically, pharmacists have had oversight on all aspects of the prescription filling process, changes in the health care system have resulted in a recent emphasis on pharmacists performing more clinical interventions, such as drug utilization reviews (DURs) and medication therapy management (MTM). This leaves less time for pharmacists to focus on the nonjudgmental aspects of prescription filling, such as data entry, labeling and NDC checks. Because pharmacy technicians are taking on an increased role in the prescription filling process, it is important that they be able to distinguish between judgmental and nonjudgmental tasks as they pertain to the practice of pharmacy (Chart 1). In general, nonjudgmental tasks are those that do not require the specialized skills and knowledge of the pharmacist. These can include: counting tablets, labeling a prescription bottle or stocking inventory. In contrast, duties such as recommending an over-the-counter pain reliever or discussing clinical outcomes with a physician are considered judgmental tasks since they require the expertise of the pharmacist. Although the technician in Case Study #2 may know from experience that the pharmacist will recommend a certain product, he cannot make the recommendation himself. The pharmacist will need to utilize her training and knowledge to evaluate this particular child's condition and recommend a pain reliever that is appropriate for the age and situation. Error Identification and Classification Case Study #3: A prescription is written for warfarin 1 mg to be taken once a day. The prescription is mistakenly filled with 10 mg tablets. The patient takes the medication for two weeks before suffering a fatal bleeding episode. The patient's family takes legal action against the pharmacy, the pharmacist and the pharmacy technician. What type of error is this and how might it have been prevented? Pharmacy errors are generally regarded as one of two types: a mechanical error or an intellectual error. A mechanical error or misfill is one that is committed during the prescription filling process. Some typical examples of mechanical errors include: wrong drug, wrong strength or wrong directions. According to the Pharmacists Mutual Company, approximately 80 percent of liability claims filed against pharmacists are due to mechanical errors.<3> In contrast, an intellectual error, sometimes called a judgmental error, is one that involves a failure of professional judgment, such as when a pharmacist neglects to warn a patient of potentially harmful side effects.<4> Although the role of the pharmacy technician in preventing mechanical errors may be more obvious, technicians must also be vigilant against intellectual errors. For instance, a technician who handles the majority of data entry must be attentive to DUR alerts, such as allergy dangers and drug-drug interactions, and communicate those to the pharmacist for evaluation. The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) lists quality processes and risk management as one of the 10 key elements that can affect medication use and help prevent errors from occurring.<4> Some of the factors that can contribute to both mechanical and intellectual errors include high prescription volume, lack of support staff, frequent interruptions and look alike/sound alike (LASA)medications. ISMP recommends that each employer have its own strategies and systems in place for dealing with these issues in order to minimize errors. The error described above in Case Study #3 would qualify as a mechanical error, since the wrong strength of medication was dispensed. The pharmacy staff would need to evaluate what factors contributed to the error and then determine how to prevent a future occurrence. Tort Law and Malpractice Case Study #4: A pharmacy technician working in a busy hospital prepares an IV containing insulin. The order reads 15 units but the technician misreads the U in units as a trailing zero. The technician types up the label and prepares the IV using 150 units of insulin. The pharmacist on duty performs a final check of the IV and it is sent to the floor, where it is administered by nursing staff. The patient subsequently dies as a result of the overdose. The family of the deceased patient plans to file a lawsuit. Who can be held liable for this error? This situation is an example of a tort claim. A tort is a type of civil law that describes damages caused by one person against another. The tort may be intentional or unintentional. Tort cases are heard in civil court and typically involve the plaintiff seeking monetary damages against the defendant. Malpractice and negligence are terms generally associated with tort law in relation to pharmacy practice. Malpractice occurs when there is a failure to meet the generally accepted standards of the profession and this failure results in harm to the patient. Malpractice is more often associated with mechanical errors, as described above. However, as the pharmacist's role expands to include more clinical services, malpractice claims due to intellectual error can occur.<5> Malpractice in the pharmacy setting is often the result of negligence. Negligence can be defined as the failure to do what any other reasonable individual would do in the same circumstances. For example, failing to stop at a red light could be considered negligent since a reasonable driver in the same circumstances would know to do so. In the pharmacy setting, negligent actions can occur throughout the filling process. Some common examples of potentially negligent behavior include: typing the wrong NDC into the system during prescription entry or failing to use aseptic technique during sterile admixture. Negligence can also occur if a pharmacy technician acts outside their scope of practice. Providing patient counseling on drug dosing, side effects or interactions could be considered negligent if state law prohibits technicians from performing judgmental tasks. In the case study above, the hospital could be held liable for the error under the doctrine of Respondeat Superior, a Latin phrase that means, Let the master answer. Legally, an employer is responsible for the actions of its employees when they perform their job duties.<6> Since the technician made the error during part of his routine job responsibilities as an employee of the hospital, the hospital can share liability in this claim. Respondeat Superior can also apply to licensed pharmacists for errors made by pharmacy technicians. Because the pharmacist on duty performed a final check of the IV insulin solution before it was sent to the floor, the pharmacist could also be held liable. However, under the legal doctrine of contribution, a claim can also be made against the pharmacy technician.<7> Under this doctrine, both the hospital and the pharmacist can file suit against the technician for any financial loss they are ordered to pay as a result of the technician's actions. In Case Study #4, the family of the deceased patient could pursue a financial settlement against the hospital and the pharmacist. The hospital and the pharmacist in turn could pursue a financial claim against the pharmacy technician. Liability under HIPAA Case Study #5: Sally Jones is a long-time customer at ABC Pharmacy. She arrives at the pharmacy to pick up a refill of her blood pressure medication. The technician on duty rings up her prescription, and Ms. Jones leaves without incident. Upon arriving home, however, she discovers that she was given another customer's medication by mistake. She calls the pharmacy to report the error. How should the pharmacy technician handle this situation? An important provision of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) was the Privacy Rule, which established standards to protect the confidentiality of patient information while still allowing reasonable access to those involved in patient care. Under the Privacy Rule, protected health information (PHI) refers to any data that can identify the patient and the patient's individual health information. For instance, a prescription record is considered PHI since it contains personal information like patient name and date of birth as well as information regarding the patient's medical condition. Violations of the Privacy Rule can result in severe financial penalties, as well as jail time. In 2009, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued regulations that required health care providers to self-report any violations of PHI. The HIPAA compliance officer of each organization must have established procedures in place for documenting these types of violations. Any breach in information must be reported to the individuals affected as well as HHS. Additionally, if the breach involves a large number of individuals, the health care provider may be required to alert the media.<8> In Case Study #5, the technician has a duty to report that there has been an unauthorized disclosure of PHI using the procedures outlined by his employer. Drug Diversion Case Study #6 A pharmacy technician admits to stealing over 12,000 tablets of alprazolam over a six-month period from the pharmacy where he is employed. In some instances, the technician simply took the tablets from the pharmacy inventory. On other occasions, he billed legitimate prescriptions to the insurance company for a larger quantity of tablets than what was actually dispensed. In addition to losing his job, what type of penalties might this technician face? It has been estimated that the theft of controlled prescription drugs costs Americans over $72 billion per year.<9> Several State Boards of Pharmacy have begun to identify an upward trend in the numbers of pharmacy technicians involved in theft of controlled substances.<10> It is important to understand that even unintentional acts of diversion can have severe consequences. The Controlled Substance Act of 1970 established Title 21 of the U.S. Code, which deals with the classification and regulation of controlled substances in the United States. The regulations outlined in Title 21 make it a federal crime to possess a controlled substance without a valid prescription.<11> Although state law may classify the theft of a controlled substance as a misdemeanor, pharmacy technicians should be aware that under federal law, this type of theft can qualify as a felony and result in a lengthy prison sentence. Because the technician in the case history above improperly billed insurance companies, he could also be guilty of heath care fraud. Pharmacy technicians must always follow proper procedures when billing prescriptions, such as making sure that the prescription is legitimate and always billing for the correct quantity. According to The Office of the Inspector General of the United States, pharmacy professionals that bill insurance for refills they did not dispense or for quantities of medication greater than prescribed can be guilty of health care fraud.<12> This violates Title 18 of the U.S. Code and is considered a felony. On the Horizon It is important to understand that no current national standard exists for pharmacy technician training, certification or regulation. The determination of responsibilities and liabilities on the job rests solely at the discretion of the individual states. At present, only a small handful of states require pharmacy technicians to have any sort of formal education or training.<13> In 2009, the state of Ohio officially adopted a groundbreaking piece of legislation now known as Emily's Law. Named after two-year-old Emily Jerry, who died as the result of a pharmacy error, this law established minimum requirements for the education and training of pharmacy technicians handling IVs in Ohio. In 2009, the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) convened a task force comprised of pharmacy professionals throughout the nation to evaluate the need for educational and training standards at the national level. In their final report, the task force, [recommended] that state boards of pharmacy, by 2015, require all certified pharmacy technicians to have completed an accredited education and training program.<14> This position has been repeatedly supported by professional pharmacy organizations such as the ASHP, the American Pharmacists Association (APHA), the National Pharmacy Technician Association (NPTA) and the Council on Credentialing in Pharmacy (CCP). Some states have already begun to recognize the expanding role of the pharmacy technician in the changing landscape of our health care system. These states have enacted legislation that allows properly trained technicians to check the work of other technicians in certain clinical settings (Table 1). However, greater responsibilities in all areas of dispensing will mean increased potential for liability. Pharmacy technicians must be prepared with a clear understanding of the legal impact on their developing job descriptions and broadening scope of work. Chart 1: Comparison of Judgmental and Nonjudgmental Tasks in the Pharmacy Setting Examples of Nonjudgmental Tasks Counting/pouring medications Labeling prescription containers Prepackaging unit dose medications Reconstituting medications, such as liquid antibiotics Performing inventory management duties, such as ordering, stocking and rotating inventory based on product usage Examples of Judgmental Tasks Performing drug utilization reviews (DUR) Providing patient counseling on medication side effects Evaluating adverse medication events Recommending medication therapy Evaluating appropriateness of medication therapy Table 1: Regulated States with Tech-Check-Tech Programs Technician Certification Required by State Law? Type of Setting Advanced or Specialized Training Required? California NO institutional* Yes Idaho YES acute care hospital Yes Iowa YES institutional Yes Kentucky NO institutional No Kansas YES institutional Yes Minnesota NO institutional Yes Montana YES institutional Yes North Dakota NO institutional and community Yes South Carolina YES institutional not specified Texas YES (exemptions available) institutional * Yes Washington YES institutional Yes *Only institutional settings with clinical pharmacy programs may utilize a TCT program Works Cited 1. United States. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Dept. of Labor. Pharmacy Technicians and Aides. Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition. Washington: GPO, 2010. 1-2. U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics. Web. 4 March 2011. 2. White paper on pharmacy technicians 2002: Needed changes can no longer wait. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists 60 (2003): 37-51. Web. 13 March 2011. 3. Pharmacists Mutual Companies. The Pharmacists Mutual Claims Study.Pharmacists Mutual Companies. 2008. Web. 20 March 2011. 4. Cohen, Michael. Causes of Medication Errors. Medication Errors. Ed. Michael Cohen. Washington: Am Pharm Assoc, 2007. 55-66. Print. 5. O'Donnell, James and Richard Benjamin. Chapter 38: Pharmacist Malpractice and Liability. Legal Medicine. Ed. Shafeek Sanbar. Philadelphia: Mosby, 2007. Google Books. Web. 24 March 2011. 6. George, Thomas. Chapter 20: Supportive Personnel in Pharmacy Practice. Pharmacy Law Desk Reference. Ed. Delbert Konnor. New York: Haworth Press, 2007. Print. 7. DiNardo, John E. Legal Q & A: Who's liable for technician mistakes? Drug Topics. Dec. 2006: n. pag. Web. 20 March 2011. 8. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Health Information Privacy. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Web. 22 March 2011. 9. National Drug Intelligence Center. National Prescription Drug Threat Assessment. National Drug Intelligence Center. U.S. Department of Justice, 2009. Web. 15 March 2011. 10. Traynor, Kate. Pharmacy Boards Struggle with Internal Theft in Pharmacies. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. 2003. Web. 23 March 2011. 11. 21 USC Sec. 844. Washgington: GPO, 2007. n.pag. Web. 23 March 2011. 12. 18 USC Sec. 1847. Washington: GPO, 2010. n.pag. Web. 23 March 2011. 13. Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. State Regulations. Pharmacy Technician Certification Board. n.d. Web. 14 March 2011. 14. Report of the Task Force on Pharmacy Technician Training and Education Programs. National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, 2010. Web. 20 March 2011.