Chapter 2 - The Foundation of Pharmaceutical Care

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to pharmacy technician education and practice.

assay and control unit

A group with the responsibility for auditing the control system and evaluating product quality; similar to a quality control unit.

certified

For a pharmacy technician, this means being granted recognition by a nongovernmental agency or association because of meeting predetermined qualifications they have specified as necessary.

competencies

Unique skill sets and abilities in a particular field.

confidentiality

The nondisclosure of a customer’s privileged information unless the customer has given his or her consent.

continuing education

Additional topics of study that must be earned in order to maintain certifications, including certified pharmacy technician status.

drug control

A method used to eliminate or reduce the potential harm of the drug distributed.

ethics

A set of standards of behavior; in a profession, a guide to correct actions that should be followed.

externships

Also called acting internships, in which individuals work in actual pharmacies in order to gain practical, hands-on experience.

inpatient

Refers to inside a hospital or other health care institution where patients stay overnight or for longer periods.

internships

Periods of work experience located within organizations for a limited time to gain skills and experience.

licensed

Being granted permission by a government agency to engage in an occupation.

nondiscretionary

Not subject or left to an individual’s own discretion.

outpatient

In relation to pharmacy, this means community pharmacy settings.

pharmacy

The art and science of dispensing and preparing medication and providing drug-related information to the public.

preceptor

A person who guides, tutors, and provides direction aimed at a specific performance.

profession

An occupation or career that requires specialized education, ongoing training, and knowledge.

quality control

An organized effort in the pharmaceutical field to ensure that medications are safe, effective, and acceptable.

quality control unit

A group with the responsibility for auditing the control system and evaluating product quality.

registered

Being placed on a list of similar practicing individuals by the state board of pharmacy.

United States Pharmacopeia (USP)

A nonprofit organization that sets standards for the identity, strength, quality, purity, packaging, and labeling of drug products.