Inpatient Pharmacist

Job Description

The Inpatient Pharmacist plays a critical role within the pharmacy department, primarily focusing on ensuring safe, effective, and cost-efficient drug therapy for patients. Responsibilities include preparing and distributing medications in accordance with federal and state laws, offering patient counseling and education, and advising medical and nursing staff on drug therapy. The pharmacist also manages the drug inventory and participates in quality improvement initiatives, directly impacting patient healthcare.

Independent professional judgment is essential when filling and dispensing prescriptions, ensuring safety and appropriateness. The pharmacist must communicate effectively with prescribers and patients, validating understanding of medications to enhance compliance and minimize morbidity. Additionally, active participation in drug utilization evaluation processes contributes to improved patient care and cost savings.

Key Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Review all prescriptions for therapy appropriateness, legality, completeness, contraindications, interactions, and allergies.
• Provide clinical consultation to resolve concerns with prescribers prior to dispensing medications.
• Document clinical activities and interventions accurately.
• Enter prescriptions into pharmacy software and verify finished orders in a timely manner.
• Advise patients about their medications and ensure understanding of their therapy.
• Perform medication therapy management and chart reviews for prescription refills.
• Direct pharmacy support personnel and verify their daily activities.
• Participate in clinical and administrative activities, including quality control and improvement.
• Provide health promotion and disease prevention education related to drug use.

Education, Certifications, and Licenses Required

• Pharm.D. degree and licensure as a registered pharmacist.
• Consideration for candidates with a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree granted prior to 2003, provided they have 3 years of experience in a hospital or ambulatory clinic pharmacy.
• Unrestricted license as a registered pharmacist in the state of Alaska.
• Certification in Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers.
• Completion of a nationally recognized pharmacy residency program is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proficient in reviewing medical histories, lab results, and medication orders with an in-depth understanding of pharmaceutical sciences.
• Comprehensive knowledge of state and federal laws governing pharmacy practices.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Strong computer and mathematical skills for accurate dosage calculations and compounding formulations.
• Capable of working collaboratively with healthcare teams while exercising sound judgment.
• Able to manage frequent interruptions and adapt to changing workloads and schedules.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, make critical decisions, and respond to urgent requests.

Shift Information

• 4X10 schedule from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM, including coverage on weekends and holidays.
• Holiday coverage is required.

Experience Requirements

Minimum of 2 years of experience in a related role is required.

Certifications / Requirements

BLS/BCLS certification is required.