Department of Defense Education Activity

CTH503: Health Science II-Pharmacy Tech (2022)

The Health Science II-Pharmacy Tech (year-long, 2 blocks) course is recommended for students planning on pursuing careers in the healthcare industry, which may require basic pharmaceutical knowledge, common healthcare mathematical applications, and/or technical proficiency in the administration medications. An overview of prescription and nonprescription medications, classifications, actions, and interactions is provided while critical thinking skills are developed throughout the course from initial calculations/conversions of drug dosage forms to the simulation of regulating IV infusion rates. Technical skills in the preparation and administration of medications are practiced in simulated clinical labs. Students must demonstrate the utilization of all professional and safety guidelines as designated by applicable Federal and State regulatory agencies and acts such as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Controlled Substance Act while performing simulations. The impact of pharmaceuticals on the provision of healthcare and the importance of client education are integrated throughout the course. Clinical experience is recommended to help prepare a student to potentially take the Pharmacy Technician exam when they are eligible. After the completion of this course, students may be eligible to take the Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) exam through the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB). Students must successfully complete Health Science I before enrolling in Pharmacy Tech course.

Course Note: This course satisfies the Career Technical Education (1.5 of 1.5 credit) graduation requirement.