The pharmacy profession relies heavily on its technicians as its primary support system. They are in charge of preparing drugs, counting pills, and performing other activities allocated to them to assist pharmacists in ensuring that prescriptions are filled accurately and in the appropriate manner. Pharmacy technicians can also perform clinical duties, such as taking vital signs or assisting patients with medication regimens.
Pharmacy technicians work in numerous settings, including hospitals, retail pharmacies, long-term care homes, and military bases. They would be able to find work at medical offices or pharmacies in addition to positions in the production and distribution of pharmaceutical goods.
If a career as a pharmacy technician interests you, consider getting certified in the field. You must take the Pharmacy Technician Certification Test (PTCE) to do so. Successful certification exam completion is required for employment as a pharmacy technician in several states. Also, it is a beautiful vision for people who want a professional life in this field.
Why Should You Take the PTCE?
To get qualified as an aspiring pharmacy technician, you must pass the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam, generally known as the PTCE. The examination comprises a series of multiple-choice questions designed to assess your knowledge of the information required for success in pharmacy. If you pass this exam, you can refer to yourself as a “Certified Pharmacy Technician” (CPhT).
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board, also known as the PTCB, coordinates the certification examination for pharmacy technicians. The Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE) is often required for entry-level occupations in pharmacy.
There are several solid reasons for you to take this exam, including the following:
- You will be able to demonstrate your proficiency as a pharmacy technician, which will increase your marketability to prospective employers.
- You can demonstrate your understanding of drug information management, prescription law, and pharmaceutical safety.
- Becoming certified as a pharmacy technician can increase your earning potential in this industry.
- It makes you more attractive to potential employers wanting to hire certified personnel, increasing your revenue potential.
Ways to Prepare for the Pharmacy Technician Exam
If you have already chosen to work as a pharmacy technician, you have completed the initial step. After that, you will need to begin preparing for the PTCB examination. To aid you in preparing for this critical examination, we have gathered the following valuable tips for your use:
1. Know the Basics of Your Profession
If you wish to pass the PTCE, you must comprehend the scope of pharmacists’ responsibilities and the work they perform. This will ensure you understand the fundamentals and what you need to study, such as drug interactions and mathematical computations. This knowledge will be advantageous to possess.
2. Set Goals for Yourself
Keeping track of your time while studying is crucial, so you don’t become overwhelmed or depressed if things don’t go as planned. Before moving on to the next objective, you should create intermediate and achievable goals, such as completing a chapter or section of your textbook or a complete chapter of your online course.
3. Create a Schedule
Ensure that you develop and follow a timetable for yourself. You’ll find that having a schedule makes it easier focus and avoid the urge to put things off. If you know that you will be very busy on certain days, try taking the test on another day to avoid placing undue strain on yourself on those days when your mind is not as sharp.
4. Take PTCB Practice Test
The best way to prepare for a test is by taking a pharmacy tech test. You can find and take a free PTCB practice test online that can help you get familiar with the types of questions that might appear on the exam. This will also help you learn what areas in the subject matter you need to focus on more.
Take as many PTCB practice tests as you can, as this can make you get used to the questions and help you time yourself of how long it takes you to answer one question on the actual exam. You can also determine which study materials are the most effective.
5. Read Through the Handbook
The Pharmacy Technician Handbook includes information regarding pharmacy technician duties and responsibilities and fundamental drug knowledge that may be asked on the PTCB exam. It is crucial to read through this manual before moving on to other study materials, as specific exam questions may depend on the book’s content.
6. Make Your Study Materials
Ensure that they are relevant and updated. Many students believe using outdated study materials can help them pass their examinations, but this is not always right. Use updated materials that cover all test topics and reflect industry trends, new pharmacy technician patient care guide, and safety guidelines to prepare for your tests.
7. Identify Your Weaknesses
Take some time to review your notes from classes and books. Read on topics where you need help remembering or understanding. Once you know what areas you need to study, it’s easier to determine which materials can help you learn what you need to know. Then, read or review those materials until they are stored in your long term memory.
8. Utilize Memorization Tools
Memorizing is one of the best test-prep methods. Memorizing aids in long-term retention. This will help you retain and recall information during the exam.
Flashcards are also great for studying in short intervals throughout the day. You may take them everywhere to learn. Flashcards are handy for studying terminology because they allow users to associate words with pictures and sounds instead of just text-based questions or answers.
9. Stay Up-To-Date With Changes
The Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) revises its examination approximately every few years to remain updated with the constantly changing pharmacy-related laws and rules. Make sure you are using up-to-date materials when preparing for the exam so that you can answer the questions correctly.
10. Know Your Math Skills
Pharmacy technicians must perform basic arithmetic calculations at work like counting pills, adding up dosages, and calculating the amount of liquid medicines. Before taking the PTCB exam, brush up on your arithmetic skills to avoid getting stumped by basic math questions.
11. Study With a Mentor
One of the best ways to prepare for the pharmacy technician exam is to study with someone who has already taken it. You can ask them how they prepared for the test and what they learned before taking it. This will help you understand how to approach the exam and what topics to focus on.
You Got This!
As we all know, to become a CPhT, one must understand the course contents and knowledge generously. To pass your certification exam successfully, you must prepare well.
If you want to be successful in your career field, you need to show that you have the skills and knowledge that employers require. Certification is one of the important things that employers use to assess whether their employees have sufficient knowledge and skills.
Having faith in yourself, studying strategically, and investing time to prepare for the exam will give you the best chance of success and move you closer to your dream career. You got this; trust yourself, and you can pass the test if you follow these steps.