Pharmacy Technician - Illinois CancerCare

Illinois CancerCare is seeking a full-time pharmacy technician to assist with IV preparations for oncology patients including but not limited to preparing and mixing chemotherapeutic and biologic agents for administration accurately and safely, meeting acceptable criteria for sterility, and calculates BSA, dose basis calculation, and other items according to protocol. A consistent schedule and great benefits make this an exceptional job opportunity for the right candidate. Applicants should be highly motivated and must possess excellent communication skills. Previous pharmacy experience is preferred and must have license and certification or willing to obtain within 90 days.

Review chemotherapy Orders:

• Calculates BSA, dose basis calculations, pertinent lab values, and other items according to protocol.
• Prepares and mixes chemotherapeutic and biologic agents for administration accurately and safely, meeting acceptable criteria for sterility, stability and minimizing exposure through knowledge of good cleanroom practices and safe handling of hazardous drug admixtures.
• Follow OSHA guidelines.
• Participates in continuing education activities related to Oncology/Hematology to increase overall knowledge.
• Participates in documentation of clinical interventions, adverse reactions and both near-miss and actual adverse events.
• Ensures compliance with practice policies and procedure to maintain a safe environment for the preparation and administration of chemotherapy.
• Able to prioritize elements of multi-agent chemotherapy regimens so the nurse has the right drug at the right time.
• Maintains inventory control of all drug stock, including ordering, verifying orders received, proper recording and documentation, and shelving of product.Responsible for commercial drug, indigent drug, and samples.
• Verifies count of all drug used at the end of each day, including identifying, investigating, and resolving discrepancies when necessary.
• Rotates all stock and checks drug expiration dates routinely.
• Travels to all Satellite clinics to work as directed by Lead IV Prep Specialist and/or Supervisor.
• Maintains communication with wholesaler or the Lead IV Prep Specialist with regard to stocking needs, shipping errors, etc.
• Assists staff in ensuring proper stock levels of drugs are at each clinic.
• Pulls drugs and supplies for clinics when needed.
• Super User for the Drug Dispensing cabinet
• Communicates drug and stock shortages to nursing staff.
• Assists nursing with Drug Dispensing Cabinet activities.
• Maintains inventory control and proper accountability records of investigational drugs.  Communicates with research department with regard to inventory needs and participates in audits as requested.
• Cleans pharmacy equipment, utensils, and work areas.
• Maintains patient confidentiality.

Additional Duties for IV Prep and Retail

• Maintains communication with wholesaler, Inventory Control Specialist/Buyer with regard to stocking needs, shipping errors, etc.
• Performs other related duties as assigned/requested by the Director of Pharmacy, the Retail Pharmacists, or the IV Prep Supervisor.
• Additional duties:
• Work additional hours when requested;
• Attends required meetings and participates in committees as requested;
• Report to work area on time and remain available throughout the work day;
• Communicate to outside facilities in a courteous, helpful manner;
• Observes OSHA and facility policies and guidelines;
• Follow policies and procedures set forth by Illinois CancerCare and/or the IV Prep Supervisor and Director of Pharmacy

SPECIAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Requires full range of body motion including handling and lifting patients, manual and finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination.  Requires standing and walking for extensive periods of time. Occasionally lifts and carries items weighing up to 50 pounds.  Requires corrected vision and hearing to normal range.  Ability to work on a desktop computer for extended periods of time.  Ability to work with arms out in front and away from body for extended periods of time. May require working under stressful conditions or working irregular hours.

TYPICAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Frequent exposure to toxic substances, including chemotherapeutic, cytotoxic drugs and

Cleaning solutions, sticks or cuts by needles and other sharp items.

 KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of pharmaceutical and related medical technology, metric and apothecary systems of weights and measurements, and medical safety standards to assist in manufacturing and working with pharmaceutical substances.  Knowledge of chemotherapeutic and biological drugs and the dispensing function to check for correctness.  Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with patients, medical staff and public and ability to communicate clearly. Ability to read, understand and follow oral and written instructions.  Ability to perform arithmetical computations and use calculator.

TRAITS

Maintains a positive and caring atmosphere for patients, families, and members of the health care team, performs job responsibilities in a manner that promotes the practices’ mission and philosophy. Demonstrates the willingness and the ability to work effectively with others and willingly assists in department overload situations. Follows the practice and departmental standards of attendance, appearance, policies, and procedures, (including those that deal specifically with safety and confidentiality). Responds positively to constructive suggestions to improve job performance and contributes creative suggestions. Present and promote a positive public image of Illinois CancerCare in general. Exhibits pride and loyalty.   

TRAINING AND LICENSURE REQUIRED

Current of Application for Illinois Technician License and National Pharmacy Technician Certification or plans to obtain.

Two years experience in a pharmacy setting preferred.

Preparation of IV admixtures and/or chemotherapy preferred.