compounding pharmacy technician Interview Questions and Answers

1. What is compounding pharmacy?

   • Answer: Compounding pharmacy is the process of preparing customized medications tailored to a patient's specific needs, often when commercially available medications are unavailable or unsuitable.

2. Describe your experience with aseptic techniques.

   • Answer: I have extensive experience in maintaining aseptic conditions during compounding, including proper hand hygiene, garbing procedures (gowning, gloving, mask), and utilizing laminar airflow workbenches to prevent contamination. I understand the importance of following USP <797> guidelines meticulously.

3. Explain the importance of USP <797> compliance.

   • Answer: USP <797> provides guidelines for compounding sterile preparations to minimize the risk of contamination and ensure patient safety. Adherence is crucial to prevent infections and adverse reactions caused by contaminated compounded medications.

4. What are the different types of compounding?

   • Answer: There are two main types: non-sterile compounding, which involves preparing medications that are not administered directly into the bloodstream, and sterile compounding, which involves preparing medications for parenteral administration (e.g., IVs, injections).

5. How do you ensure the accuracy of compounded medications?

   • Answer: Accuracy is paramount. I meticulously double-check all calculations, measurements, and ingredients before and after compounding. I use calibrated equipment and follow established procedures for weighing, measuring, and mixing. I also maintain accurate records of all compounding activities.

6. What are some common pieces of equipment used in compounding?

   • Answer: Common equipment includes balances (analytical and torsion), graduated cylinders, mortars and pestles, spatulas, funnels, laminar airflow workbenches, autoclaves, and various measuring devices.

7. How do you handle hazardous drugs in compounding?

   • Answer: I strictly adhere to USP <800> guidelines for handling hazardous drugs, utilizing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, gowns, respirators, and eye protection. I work in a designated area with specialized ventilation and follow strict waste disposal procedures.

8. What is the role of a compounding logbook?

   • Answer: The compounding logbook meticulously documents every step of the compounding process, including ingredients, quantities, calculations, equipment used, and the compounder's initials. It's essential for quality control, traceability, and regulatory compliance.

9. Explain the importance of proper labeling of compounded medications.

   • Answer: Proper labeling is crucial for patient safety and proper administration. The label must include the patient's name, medication name and strength, directions for use, expiration date, and any necessary warnings or precautions.

10. How do you handle a compounding error?

    • Answer: I immediately report any errors to the pharmacist-in-charge. The incorrect preparation is discarded according to established protocols. A thorough investigation is conducted to determine the cause of the error and prevent future occurrences. We document everything.

11. Describe your experience with different dosage forms.

    • Answer: I have experience compounding various dosage forms, including capsules, tablets, creams, ointments, liquids, suppositories, and sterile preparations like IV solutions and injections.

12. What are some common incompatibilities that can occur during compounding?

    • Answer: Incompatibilities can arise from chemical reactions between ingredients, such as precipitation, color change, or gas formation. Physical incompatibilities can occur due to differences in solubility or miscibility. I am familiar with consulting resources to identify potential incompatibilities.

13. How do you maintain the quality of compounded medications?

    • Answer: Maintaining quality involves meticulous attention to detail throughout the entire process, from selecting high-quality ingredients and properly calibrating equipment to following established procedures and maintaining proper storage conditions. Regular cleaning and maintenance of equipment are also critical.

14. What are your strengths as a compounding pharmacy technician?

    • Answer: My strengths include meticulous attention to detail, strong aseptic technique, proficiency in compounding various dosage forms, accurate measurement and calculation skills, and the ability to follow established protocols diligently. I am also a quick learner and a team player.

15. What are your weaknesses as a compounding pharmacy technician?

    • Answer: I sometimes tend to be perfectionistic, which can occasionally slow down my work. However, I am working on improving my time management skills to balance efficiency with accuracy.

16. Why are you interested in this position?

    • Answer: I'm passionate about compounding because it allows me to directly contribute to patient care by providing customized medications that meet their individual needs. I am drawn to the meticulous nature of the work and the opportunity to constantly learn and develop my skills.

17. What is your experience with inventory management?

    • Answer: I have experience maintaining accurate inventory records, ordering supplies, and managing stock levels to ensure sufficient quantities of ingredients and supplies are available while minimizing waste. I am familiar with various inventory management systems.

18. How do you handle stressful situations?

    • Answer: I remain calm under pressure and prioritize tasks to ensure accuracy and efficiency. I focus on maintaining aseptic technique and following procedures meticulously even in demanding situations.

19. Describe your teamwork skills.

    • Answer: I am a strong team player who collaborates effectively with pharmacists and other technicians to achieve common goals. I value open communication and contribute positively to a collaborative work environment.

20. What is your understanding of pharmaceutical calculations?

    • Answer: I have a strong understanding of pharmaceutical calculations, including ratios, proportions, percentages, and conversions between different units of measurement. I am proficient in using formulas and applying these calculations accurately in compounding.

21. How do you stay current with changes in compounding regulations and best practices?

    • Answer: I actively participate in continuing education opportunities, attend workshops and seminars, and stay informed about updates to USP guidelines and other relevant regulations through professional journals and online resources.

22. What are your salary expectations?

    • Answer: Based on my experience and research of the current market rate for compounding pharmacy technicians in this area, I am seeking a salary in the range of [State Salary Range].

23. What are your long-term career goals?

    • Answer: My long-term career goal is to become a highly skilled and respected compounding pharmacy technician, continually expanding my knowledge and expertise in the field. I'm interested in specializing in [Mention specific area of interest, if any].

24. Are you comfortable working independently?

    • Answer: Yes, I am comfortable working independently and taking initiative to complete tasks efficiently and accurately. However, I also value teamwork and collaboration.

25. How do you handle customer interactions?

    • Answer: I maintain a professional and courteous demeanor when interacting with customers, answering their questions patiently and accurately. I ensure their concerns are addressed promptly and professionally.

26. What is your experience with different types of balances?

    • Answer: I am proficient in using both analytical and torsion balances, understanding their capabilities and limitations. I know how to calibrate and maintain them properly.

27. Explain your understanding of different types of mortars and pestles.

    • Answer: I understand the differences between glass, porcelain, and Wedgwood mortars and pestles, and their appropriate uses based on the properties of the ingredients being compounded.

28. Describe your knowledge of different types of capsules.

    • Answer: I am familiar with various types of capsules, including hard gelatin capsules (size 000 to 5), soft gelatin capsules, and their appropriate uses based on the nature of the medication being encapsulated. I understand how to fill and seal them properly.

29. What is your understanding of the different types of ointment bases?

    • Answer: I understand the different types of ointment bases, including hydrocarbon bases (e.g., petrolatum), absorption bases, water-removable bases, and water-soluble bases. I know how to select the appropriate base depending on the drug's properties and desired release characteristics.

30. How do you ensure the sterility of compounded sterile preparations?

    • Answer: I strictly adhere to aseptic techniques, using a laminar airflow workbench, proper garbing, hand hygiene, and meticulous procedures to prevent contamination. I am familiar with terminal sterilization techniques if applicable.

31. What are the different types of parenteral routes of administration?

    • Answer: Parenteral routes include intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), subcutaneous (SC), and intradermal (ID) injections.

32. What is your experience with preparing IV admixtures?

    • Answer: [Describe experience, if any. If none, state that you are eager to learn and have the foundational knowledge to quickly acquire the necessary skills.]

33. What is your understanding of beyond-use dating (BUD)?

    • Answer: BUD is the date after which a compounded preparation should not be used. I understand how to calculate BUD according to USP guidelines, considering factors such as the preparation's stability and storage conditions.

34. How do you handle patient confidentiality?

    • Answer: I strictly adhere to HIPAA regulations and maintain patient confidentiality at all times. I only access and disclose patient information when necessary for providing care and follow all protocols related to protecting sensitive data.

35. What is your proficiency with pharmacy software?

    • Answer: [Mention specific software experience. If none, express willingness to learn.]

36. Explain your understanding of the different types of prescription orders.

    • Answer: I am familiar with various prescription formats, including electronic and paper prescriptions, and understand how to interpret them accurately, including the medication name, dosage, strength, and quantity.

37. How do you manage your time effectively?

    • Answer: I prioritize tasks, create to-do lists, and break down complex projects into smaller, manageable steps. I also use time management techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique to maintain focus and efficiency.

38. How do you deal with difficult or demanding customers?

    • Answer: I listen to their concerns empathetically, maintain a calm and professional demeanor, and attempt to resolve their issues to the best of my ability while adhering to established protocols.

39. What is your experience with quality control measures in compounding?

    • Answer: I am familiar with various quality control measures, including visual inspection, weight checks, and other tests to ensure the accuracy and quality of compounded preparations. I document all QC checks.

40. What is your understanding of good manufacturing practices (GMP)?

    • Answer: GMP principles are essential for ensuring the quality and safety of compounded preparations. I understand their importance in maintaining cleanliness, accuracy, and adherence to established procedures.

41. What is your experience with cleaning and maintaining compounding equipment?

    • Answer: I have experience in cleaning and sterilizing compounding equipment according to established protocols, using appropriate cleaning agents and sterilization techniques to prevent contamination.

42. How do you handle spills and other accidents in the compounding area?

    • Answer: I follow established spill-cleanup procedures, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and cleaning agents. I report all accidents and near-misses to the pharmacist-in-charge.

43. What is your understanding of the importance of proper documentation in compounding?

    • Answer: Proper documentation is essential for traceability, quality control, and regulatory compliance. I understand the importance of accurately recording all aspects of the compounding process, including ingredient quantities, procedures followed, and any observations.

44. How do you handle discrepancies between a prescription order and the available ingredients?

    • Answer: I immediately alert the pharmacist-in-charge. We will review the prescription and determine the appropriate course of action, which may involve contacting the prescriber for clarification or substitutions if permitted.

45. What is your experience with preparing ophthalmic preparations?

    • Answer: [Describe experience, if any. If none, express willingness to learn.]

46. What is your experience with preparing otic preparations?

    • Answer: [Describe experience, if any. If none, express willingness to learn.]

47. What is your experience with preparing dermatological preparations?

    • Answer: [Describe experience, if any. If none, express willingness to learn.]

48. What is your understanding of different types of preservatives used in compounding?

    • Answer: I am familiar with various preservatives used to maintain the sterility and stability of compounded preparations, including benzalkonium chloride, methylparaben, and propylparaben. I understand their appropriate uses and concentrations.

49. What is your understanding of the different types of vehicles used in compounding?

    • Answer: Vehicles are the bases or carriers used to deliver the active pharmaceutical ingredients. I understand the selection of appropriate vehicles based on the drug's properties and desired route of administration.

50. What is your experience with using aseptic technique in a cleanroom environment?

    • Answer: [Describe experience, if any. If none, express willingness to learn and understanding of the importance of maintaining a sterile environment.]

51. Describe your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a compounding pharmacy technician.

    • Answer: A compounding pharmacy technician assists the pharmacist in preparing customized medications, maintaining accurate records, ensuring quality control, adhering to safety regulations, and maintaining a clean and organized workspace. They follow established procedures and contribute to the overall efficiency of the compounding process.

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