Dispensing
Dispensing is the core activity in pharmacy where medications are prepared and given to patients based on prescriptions. It involves carefully measuring, packaging, and providing the right medications to patients, along with instructions for use. This process requires attention to detail, knowledge of medications, and strong safety protocols. Think of it as the pharmacy equivalent of a chef preparing a specially ordered meal – everything must be precise, safe, and according to the prescription (the recipe). This term is fundamental in pharmacy work, whether in retail pharmacies, hospitals, or clinical settings.
Examples in Resumes
Safely dispensing over 200 prescriptions daily in a busy retail pharmacy setting
Managed dispensing operations for hospital pharmacy serving 300+ beds
Supervised dispensing activities and trained junior pharmacy staff in proper procedures
Implemented new electronic dispensing system to improve accuracy and efficiency
Typical job title: "Dispensing Pharmacists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Dispensing Pharmacists
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a conflict between a prescription and a patient's known allergies?
Expected Answer: A senior pharmacist should explain the process of checking patient history, contacting the prescribing doctor, documenting the intervention, and suggesting alternative medications while ensuring patient safety.
Q: How do you manage and improve dispensing workflow during peak hours?
Expected Answer: Should discuss staff coordination, prioritization strategies, quality control measures, and methods to maintain both efficiency and accuracy while managing high prescription volumes.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What steps do you take to prevent dispensing errors?
Expected Answer: Should describe double-checking procedures, proper labeling practices, organizing workspace, and using technology to verify prescriptions and patient information.
Q: How do you handle controlled substance prescriptions?
Expected Answer: Should explain verification procedures, documentation requirements, storage protocols, and legal compliance measures for controlled substances.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What information must be included on a prescription label?
Expected Answer: Should list basic elements like patient name, drug name and strength, directions, quantity, prescriber information, and pharmacy information.
Q: How do you ensure accurate measurement when dispensing liquid medications?
Expected Answer: Should describe proper use of graduated cylinders, importance of eye-level reading, clean equipment, and double-checking measurements.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic prescription processing
- Medication measurements and counting
- Label creation and verification
- Basic patient counseling
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex prescription handling
- Inventory management
- Insurance and billing procedures
- Advanced patient consultation
Senior (5+ years)
- Staff supervision and training
- Quality control implementation
- Workflow optimization
- Advanced clinical decision-making
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of attention to detail in prescription processing
- Poor understanding of medication safety protocols
- Inability to explain basic dispensing procedures
- No knowledge of pharmacy laws and regulations
- Careless attitude toward double-checking prescriptions
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Refining Job Descriptions to Expand Applicant Pools: Casting a Wider Talent Net
Workforce Solutions Aggregators: The Next Big Thing You Didn't Know You Needed
Navigating Compliance: Structuring On-the-Job Training in Regulated Industries
