Top 10 Questions for Staff Pharmacist, Hospital Interview

1. How would you approach a patient who is reluctant to take their medication?

I would first try to understand the patient’s reasons for being reluctant to take their medication. I would ask them about their concerns and try to address them. I would also explain the benefits of taking the medication and the risks of not taking it. If the patient is still reluctant, I would work with them to develop a plan to help them take their medication, such as setting up a medication reminder or finding a support group.

2. What is your experience with medication reconciliation?

Prior to Admission

• Collect a medication list from the patient or their caregiver.
• Review the medication list for any potential discrepancies.
• Discuss the medication list with the patient and their healthcare provider.

Upon Admission

• Reconcile the patient’s medication list with the medications that are brought in with them.
• Review the patient’s medication list for any potential discrepancies.
• Discuss the medication list with the patient and their healthcare provider.

Upon Discharge

• Provide the patient with a complete and accurate list of their medications.
• Review the medication list with the patient and their caregiver.
• Answer any questions that the patient or their caregiver may have.

3. How would you handle a situation where a patient is requesting a medication that you know they should not be taking?

I would first try to understand why the patient is requesting the medication. I would ask them about their symptoms and try to determine if there is another medication that would be more appropriate. If the patient is insistent on taking the medication, I would explain to them why it is not appropriate for them to take and the risks of taking it. I would also offer to speak with their doctor to get their opinion. If the patient still insists on taking the medication, I would document the conversation and notify their doctor.

4. What is your experience with sterile compounding?

I have experience with sterile compounding in both a hospital and a retail pharmacy setting. I have compounded a variety of sterile preparations, including IV solutions, injectable medications, and ophthalmic solutions. I am familiar with the USP 797 guidelines for sterile compounding and I follow them strictly in my work.

5. How would you handle a situation where a patient is experiencing an adverse drug reaction?

I would first assess the patient’s condition and determine the severity of the reaction. If the reaction is mild, I would monitor the patient and provide supportive care. If the reaction is more severe, I would call the doctor and start appropriate treatment. I would also document the reaction in the patient’s medical record and notify the pharmacy.

6. What is your experience with pharmacy informatics?

I have experience with a variety of pharmacy informatics systems, including electronic health records, pharmacy management systems, and medication dispensing systems. I am proficient in using these systems to manage patient medication therapy and to improve patient safety. I am also familiar with the use of data analytics to identify and address medication-related problems.

7. How would you stay up-to-date on the latest developments in pharmacy practice?

I would stay up-to-date on the latest developments in pharmacy practice by reading pharmacy journals and attending conferences and workshops. I would also take advantage of online learning opportunities and participate in continuing education programs. I am a member of several pharmacy organizations, including the American Pharmacists Association and the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, which provide me with access to the latest information and resources.

8. What are your strengths and weaknesses as a pharmacist?

Strengths

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong knowledge of pharmacology and therapeutics
• Experience in a variety of pharmacy settings
• Commitment to patient safety and quality care

Weaknesses

• I am sometimes too detail-oriented and can get bogged down in the details
• I am not always comfortable speaking up in front of large groups

9. Why are you interested in working as a staff pharmacist in a hospital?

I am interested in working as a staff pharmacist in a hospital because I am passionate about providing patient care and I believe that I can make a real difference in the lives of patients in this setting. I am particularly interested in the challenges and rewards of working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. I am also eager to learn from other healthcare professionals and to contribute my knowledge and skills to the team.

10. What are your career goals?

My career goals are to become a well-rounded pharmacist who is able to provide comprehensive patient care in a variety of settings. I am particularly interested in developing my skills in medication therapy management, sterile compounding, and pharmacy informatics. I am also interested in pursuing a leadership role in pharmacy in the future.

The Staff Pharmacist, Hospital, is a highly skilled and experienced pharmacist with a deep understanding of hospital pharmacy practices. This role plays a crucial part in ensuring the safe and effective use of medications within the hospital setting. Key job responsibilities include:

1. Medication Dispensing and Management

Responsible for accurately dispensing medications to inpatients and outpatients, including preparing, labeling, and checking prescriptions.

• Ensures medication accuracy and adherence to prescribed regimens.
• Maintains accurate medication records and inventory.

2. Medication Therapy Management

Collaborates with physicians and other healthcare professionals to optimize medication therapy, including reviewing medication orders, making recommendations, and monitoring patient outcomes.

• Provides medication information and counseling to patients and families.
• Monitors and manages medication interactions and side effects.

3. IV Admixture Preparation

Prepares and dispenses intravenous (IV) medications according to prescribed orders, adhering to strict safety protocols.

• Ensures sterility and accuracy of IV medications.
• Maintains records and monitors IV therapy.

4. Hospital Pharmacy Operations

Participates in the development and implementation of hospital pharmacy policies and procedures, including medication storage, security, and waste disposal.

• Assists in the supervision and training of pharmacy staff.
• Maintains a clean and organized work environment.