Pharmacy Technician Exam (CPhT) Study Guide Focused Review

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts that pharmacy technicians need to understand for their certification exam.

Pharmacy Technician

A trained individual who assists pharmacists in their day-to-day operations.

Certification Exam

A national examination that pharmacy technicians can take to demonstrate their competency.

Scope of Practice

The tasks that a pharmacy technician can legally perform based on their training, certification, and licensing.

Clinical Judgment

The thought process that healthcare providers use to make decisions regarding patient care.

Medication Reconciliation

The process of comparing a patient's medication orders to all of the medications that the patient is currently taking.

Medication Therapy Management (MTM)

A service provided by pharmacists to improve patient outcomes through comprehensive medication reviews.

Controlled Substances

Drugs that are regulated by law due to their potential for abuse and addiction.

Drug Utilization Review (DUR)

A structured, ongoing review of health care provider prescribing, pharmacist dispensing, and patient use of medication to ensure patient safety.

Adherence Aids

Tools or strategies used to help patients take their medications as prescribed.

Labeling Requirements

Information that must be included on medication labels to ensure proper use and safety.

Abbreviations to Avoid

Certain shorthand used in prescriptions that could lead to misinterpretations and errors.

First In, First Out (FIFO)

A method used in inventory management to ensure the oldest stock is used first.

Beyond-Use Dates (BUD)

The date after which a compounded medication should not be used.

Aseptic Technique

A method used to prevent contamination when preparing sterile products.

Compounding

The process of preparing personalized medication formulations by combining ingredients.

Pharmacy Layout

The arrangement of the pharmacy space to optimize workflow and efficiency in medication dispensing.

Patient Profiles

Comprehensive records that include patient demographics, medication history, and any allergies.

Formulary

A list of medications that are approved for use within a particular health care system.

Medication Guides

Documents required to be provided with certain medications to inform patients about potential risks.

Third-Party Payer Information

Details required for billing prescriptions to insurance or government programs.

Accreditation

Official recognition that a pharmacy meets specific standards for operation.

High-Alert Medications

Drugs that have a higher risk of causing significant harm when they are used in error.