Position Title: Reliever Pharmacist
Department: Pharmacy
Position Summary:
The Reliever Pharmacist provides temporary coverage for regular pharmacy staff in a hospital setting. This role ensures that all pharmacy operations continue smoothly during staff absences, including dispensing medications, counseling patients, collaborating with healthcare teams, and maintaining accurate records. The Reliever Pharmacist must be flexible, quick to adapt to different working environments, and proficient in all areas of hospital pharmacy services.
Key Responsibilities:
Medication Dispensing:
Accurately dispense medications as prescribed by doctors or authorized healthcare providers.
Ensure prescriptions are filled safely, efficiently, and according to hospital policies.
Double-check dosage, drug interactions, and allergies to prevent medication errors.
Manage the safe distribution of controlled substances.
Patient Counseling:
Provide clear and concise counseling to patients regarding their medications, including usage, dosage, potential side effects, and interactions.
Address patient concerns or questions about prescribed medications.
Collaboration with Healthcare Teams:
Work closely with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to review medication orders and provide advice on pharmacological treatments.
Participate in multidisciplinary rounds when required to offer pharmaceutical expertise in patient care.
Medication Management:
Monitor patient medication therapies and make recommendations to optimize treatment outcomes.
Assist with medication reconciliation during patient admissions, transfers, and discharges.
Ensure proper storage, labeling, and inventory management of medications.
Pharmacy Operations:
Maintain accurate records of prescriptions, patient profiles, and medication inventory.
Comply with hospital and national regulations regarding pharmacy practice and controlled substances.
Manage pharmacy supplies and report any shortages or issues to the pharmacy manager.
Education & Training:
Educate and train patients, caregivers, and staff on medication management and administration.
Stay updated with continuing education, especially regarding new medications, therapies, and hospital protocols.
Quality Assurance:
Conduct regular audits of medication storage, documentation, and dispensing processes to ensure compliance with hospital standards.
Report any adverse drug reactions or medication errors according to hospital policy.
Other Duties:
Perform other related tasks as required, including assisting with clinical trials, drug information services, and the preparation of IV admixtures or chemotherapy medications (if trained).
Skills and Qualifications:
Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited pharmacy school.
Licensure: Valid pharmacist license to practice in the hospital's jurisdiction.
Experience: Previous experience in a hospital pharmacy setting is preferred but not mandatory.
Skills:
Strong knowledge of pharmacology and therapeutic drug monitoring.
Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
Good communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency in using pharmacy software and systems.
Work Conditions:
Work hours will vary depending on the needs of the hospital, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
The Reliever Pharmacist may be required to work in different departments or locations within the hospital.