New Zealand Certificate in Pharmacy (Pharmacy Technician - Core) (Level 4)

Program Overview

This online Pharmacy Technician program provides comprehensive training in dispensing medications, medical ethics, and pharmacy regulations. Graduates are prepared to work under the supervision of pharmacists in community pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare settings. The program emphasizes ethical and professional conduct, effective communication, and accurate medication dispensing practices.

Program Outline

Outline: This program focuses on providing comprehensive training and knowledge regarding dispensing medicines and supporting pharmacists in their responsibilities.

• Medical Ethics and Pharmacy Regulations: This module focuses on guiding students to work ethically and professionally based on the Pharmacy Council Code of Ethics, ensuring responsible conduct within the pharmacy field.
• Dispensing Medications: This core module equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to dispense and reconstitute medications accurately under the direct supervision of a certified pharmacist.
They will gain expertise in reading prescriptions, dispensing appropriate dosages, and complying with required safety standards. Students develop a strong understanding of medication properties, indications, contraindications, proper use, and safety precautions for dispensing different medicines. It also delves into the role of medicines for treating common health disorders, enabling informed patient consultations and guidance.
• Dispensary Management: This module ensures students acquire the necessary skills to successfully manage pharmacy inventory, including maintaining a well-stocked environment with appropriate storage conditions for all pharmaceutical items.
They learn the importance of proper storage, expiry dates, security considerations, and environmental controls for effective dispensary management.
• Calculations in Dispensing: This module strengthens students' mathematical abilities, ensuring accurate dose calculations and safe medication dispensing practices.
They gain the necessary skills and knowledge to perform critical calculations related to medication preparation and dispensing, minimizing errors and promoting patient safety.

Careers:

Upon completing this program, graduates can pursue careers as Pharmacy Technicians, working directly under the supervision of a registered pharmacist in various settings:

• Community Pharmacies:
• Hospital Pharmacies:
• Government and Public Health Agencies:
• Research and Pharmaceutical Industries:

Other:

• Duration:
The completion of this program, leading to the New Zealand Certificate in Pharmacy (Pharmacy Technician - Core) (Level 4) , should not exceed a timeframe of 3 years from the initial enrollment date. However, exceptions can be made based on specific situations or extenuating circumstances.

Additional Points:

• Open Polytechnic emphasizes that this program is delivered entirely online, offering a flexible learning format that adapts to students' schedules and commitments.