Outpatient Pharmacist

Department of Veterans Affairs

The primary function of this clinical pharmacist is to assure the safe and appropriate use of medications and be an advocate of rational drug therapy through the following: evaluation of the appropriateness of drug therapy based on patient specific factors; individualization of drug therapy; evaluation, dispensing and providing medications, and drug information; responsible for analyzing real and potential drug-related medical problems to ensure that patients receive optimal drug therapy.

• Major duties include, but are not limited to: Clinical Reviews patients' medication profiles and medical records as necessary for appropriate drug selection, dosing, contraindications, side effects, potential drug interactions, and therapeutic outcomes as required. Able to interpret routine laboratory values and to apply that knowledge in the evaluation of drug therapy and patient care. Communicates findings with prescribers and provides appropriate alternatives to current treatment regimens as needed. Provides timely responses to drug information requests from patient care providers and nurses. Provides counseling to patients on drug-drug interactions, adverse effects, food-drug interactions, product availability, and pharmacy policies. Processes patient prescriptions to maintain a timely discharge from Urgent Care or inpatient units. Processes prescriptions in the outpatient queue at a regular and reoccurring daily basis. Participates in multidisciplinary review of patients, evaluates pertinent laboratory data, drug and drug-nutrient interactions, monitors for adverse drug effects, and screens for allergies. Reports adverse drug events (ADE), near misses, and medication errors in alignment with local policies and procedures. Reviews and evaluates orders for non-formulary and restricted drugs for appropriateness and compliance based on established criteria and/or clinical judgement. Participates in the medical center medication utilization evaluation (MUE) program as assigned. Has expertise in the principles of clinical pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics and is knowledgeable and able to make dose adjustment recommendations based on objective laboratory findings and local policy. Manages various actions, as appropriate, for medication orders to include, but not limited to: alerts, consults and queue management. Dispensing Reviews all medication orders for appropriateness, drug selection, dosage, and route of administration prior to dispensing. Ensures all medications orders are entered into the electronic health record. Reviews medication profiles and monitors for compliance, potential abuse or diversion. Concerns will be addressed with provider as appropriate. Provides oversight and maintains knowledge of technical staff in all aspects of pharmacy and pharmaceutical care. Ensures that all orders are verified and filled in an accurate, timely manner. Responsible for the preparation of compounded sterile products according to USP standards and local policy and procedures. Maintains adequate drug stock, inspects drug storage areas, supervises prepacking and the operation of automated dispensing equipment. Ensures drugs dispensed are completely and accurately labeled and packaged in full compliance with Federal rules and regulations. Responsible for proper handling of hazardous substances in full compliance with USP standards and local policy and procedures Maintains appropriate records and completes reports as necessary. Process outpatient medication orders and discharges as required. Inputs medication allergy data when information is provided by patient/care giver/provider. Enters or removes non-VA medication data when information is provided by patient and/or caregiver. Education Completes all required training in a timely manner. Responsible for maintaining his/her professional competency by keeping abreast of current medical and pharmaceutical literature, new drugs and therapies. Effectively instructs patient and family members in the appropriate use of medications and medical devices. Is skilled at using both written and verbal communication techniques in teaching others. May serve as a preceptor for pharmacy students and/or pharmacy residents. Assumes an active role in staff development of peers and provides educational in-services to nursing, medical staff and to other ancillary services, as requested. Green Environmental Management System (GEMS): Ensure compliance with applicable environmental requirements, to prevent pollution and conserve resources. Enhance our image with regulators, patients, the public, and stakeholder groups through the careful handling of medications throughout the dispensing process and through the appropriate handling/sorting/routing of outdated medications to be set aside for destruction or routed for credit. Shall follow all policies and procedures to ensure compliance with all applicable environmental regulations and requirements and be a good steward of the environment through pollution prevention, waste minimization and resource conservation. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 0730-1700. Tour rotates. Telework: Ad-hoc

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