Advanced Chemotherapy Pharmacy Technician

Overview

Advanced Chemo Pharmacy Tech, Infusion Services at Oak Ridge

PRN/OCC, Variable Hours, Day Shift

Covenant Oncology Group Overview:

Covenant Health Oncology Group is part of the region’s largest cancer-fighting network, with more imaging centers, more board-certified physicians and surgeons, and more cancer and radiation centers closer to where you call home. All Covenant Oncology Group practices are committed to excellence and ongoing quality improvement.

Covenant Oncology Group is a leader in medical oncology services and provides patients access to all proven, drug-based treatments and the latest clinical trial medicines. Our team of board-certified, fellowship-trained medical oncologists and certified advanced practice providers deliver on-site care and treatment, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy, at affiliated infusion centers throughout our region.

Position Summary:

Under the direct supervision of the pharmacist, performs functions pertaining to the dispensing of chemotherapy medications.  Technical functions are expanded to include IV process proficiency, problem solving skills, admixture of hazardous medications and quality improvement involvement.  Leadership skills are required to include demonstrated written and verbal communication that supports the overall objectives of the department.

Responsibilities

• Performs all position accountabilities and performance criteria for level I and level II technicians.
• Assists the pharmacist in the training of technicians in levels I and II.
• Initiates and/or coordinates improvement activities as appropriate.
• Assists in the implementation of new projects including the development of policies and procedures.
• Demonstrates knowledge and competency in providing for age-specific needs of the oncology population served.
• Accurately performs calculations to prepare, compound and dispense chemotherapy medications.
• Assists pharmacists in preparing compounds, chemotherapy, and intravenous medications upon physician's orders.
• Responsible for pharmaceutical inventory stocking, restocking and management of chemotherapy medications and supplies; reconciles invoices.
• Maintains clean and safe operation of biological safety cabinets by performing daily hood cleaning/decontamination.
• Maintains clean and safe operation of the facility’s clean rooms by performing monthly air and surface testing for microbial surveillance. Exhibits understanding of the gauges used to read the air pressure of the negative pressure room, positive pressure room, and ante room and the proper action needed if readings are outside acceptable levels.
• Responsible for appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the preparation of chemotherapy agents.
• Adheres to the guidelines for safe handling of hazardous waste (Chemotherapy Hazardous Waste Spill Policy).
• Maintains Investigational Drug supply with strict adherence to regulatory requirements.
• Follows policies, procedures, and safety standards. Completes required education assignments annually. Works toward achieving goals and objectives, and participates in quality improvement initiatives as requested.
• Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.

Qualifications

Minimum Education:

None specified; however, must be sufficient to meet the standards for achievement of the below indicated license and/or certification as required by the issuing authority.

Minimum Experience: 

Three (3) years experience in the storage, handling, and disposal of chemotherapy drugs or two (2) years experience with State approved certification. 

Licensure Requirement: 

The Tennessee Board of Pharmacy requires newly hired probationary employees to be licensed by the end of their first 90 days of hire and to maintain their Technician License in active status thereafter.