• Code:JJ
  • Certification  Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma in the Principles and Practice for Pharmacy Technicians - Level 5 equivalence on the NFQ
  • Duration  Two Years

Description

This course is modular with continuous assessment over the two years. Students will develop medical knowledge to recognise common illnesses and communication skills to liase with pharmacists and council patients on healthcare issues.

Students will gain experience in dispensing procedures and practices and be able to interpret prescriptions and prepare medicines for dispensing. They will be able to maintain patient records and operate pharmacy computer systems. They will also be able to supply non-prescription medicines in accordance with legislation and guidelines.

Programme of Study
  • Provide an effective and responsive pharmacy service
  • Process pharmaceutical queries
  • Ensure your own actions reduce risks to healthy and safety
  • Reflect on and develop your practice
  • Receive prescription from individuals
  • Confirm prescription validity
  • Assemble prescribed items
  • Issue prescribed items
  • Prepare extemporaneous medicines for individual use
  • Order pharmaceutical stock
  • Receive pharmaceutical stock
  • Maintain pharmaceutical stock
  • Issue pharmaceutical stock
  • Undertake an in-process accuracy check of assembled prescribed items, prior to the final accuracy check
  • Provide advice on symptoms and actions and uses of medicines
  • Provide an effective service in a setting outside the pharmacy
  • Enable learning through demonstrations and instructions

Components subject to change

Entry Requirements

One of the following:

  • Completed QQI Level 5 Pharmacy Assistant Award
  • IPU Certificate in Medical Counter Assistant with at least 6 months pharmacy retail experience
  • Applicants with at least 2 years’ experience working in a pharmacy


NB The applicant must be working in the pharmacy for the duration of the course for a minimum of 14 hours a week.

Learners must source their own work experience.

Career Opportunities
  • Hospital Pharmacies 
  • Community Pharmacies
Higher Education Progression*

Examples of potential courses include:

R.C.S.I. (ROYAL COLLEGE OF SURGEONS, IRELAND) - Degree in pharmacy

Course Co-Ordinator

Laura Cullen

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