Pharmacy Workflow

Troubleshooting

When pharmacy workflow does not go as expected, systematically review each step of the procedure. Check equipment calibration, verify technique, and repeat the measurement if results seem inconsistent with the clinical picture. Report discrepancies to the supervisor rather than guessing at the correct value.

Calculation Methods

Calculations relevant to pharmacy workflow in pharmacy:

alligation: Parts of each concentration to reach desired concentration. Example: Mix 10% and 2% to get 5%: high minus desired = 5 parts of 2%, desired minus low = 3 parts of 10%

flow rate: Volume (mL) * drop factor / time (min). Example: 1000mL * 15gtt/mL / 480min = 31.25 gtt/min

percentage strength: w/v: g/100mL, w/w: g/100g, v/v: mL/100mL. Example: 2% hydrocortisone cream = 2g HC per 100g cream

Common Errors

Frequent errors with pharmacy workflow in pharmacy practice:

1. Misreading sig codes. For reference: OD = right eye; AU = both ears; SL = sublingual; PRN = as needed; QHS = at bedtime; PR = rectally
2. Calculation errors in dosage. Always double-check units (mg vs mcg, mL vs L)
3. Wrong DEA schedule classification affecting storage and dispensing requirements

Regulatory Context

Regulatory framework for pharmacy workflow in pharmacy:

Schedule III

Moderate abuse potential. Examples: testosterone, ketamine, Tylenol with codeine. Storage: 5 refills in 6 months, written/oral/electronic Rx

Schedule IV

Low abuse potential relative to III. Examples: benzodiazepines, zolpidem, tramadol. Storage: 5 refills in 6 months

Key Values & Ranges

Sequential steps: receive, enter, clinical review, fill, verify, dispense. Each step has specific verification requirements. Pharmacy workflow steps and error prevention points tested on PTCB exam.

Related drug class: Fluoroquinolones includes ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin. Mechanism: Inhibit bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, bactericidal.

Overview

Sequential steps: receive, enter, clinical review, fill, verify, dispense. Each step has specific verification requirements. Pharmacy workflow steps and error prevention points tested on PTCB exam.

Related drug class: Beta blockers includes metoprolol, atenolol, propranolol, carvedilol. Mechanism: Block beta-adrenergic receptors, decrease heart rate and contractility.