Pharmacist Intern

Covenant Health•Lewiston, ME

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Pharmacist Intern performs pharmacist functions related to medication distribution and drug information throughout the hospital and to the primary care team, under the general direction of the Director of Pharmacy Services and the direct supervision of a registered pharmacist. The role supports Covenant Health’s mission and values while providing safe, effective medication therapy and patient care in accordance with departmental policies and applicable laws and regulations. The intern assists with medication preparation, compounding, inventory management, clinical review, medication counseling, and drug information. The position works in centralized and decentralized settings across hospital and ambulatory areas, collaborates with multidisciplinary care teams, and may supervise pharmacy technicians. The role also includes department support, quality improvement participation, required training and competencies, equipment care, and compliance with safety and infection-control requirements.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an American Council on Pharmaceutical Education-accredited college of pharmacy.
Currently enrolled in an ACPE-accredited Doctor of Pharmacy program.
1–3 years of pharmacy technician experience.
Current Maine Pharmacy Intern license from the Maine Board of Pharmacy.
Ability to observe aseptic techniques when handling sterile products and equipment and maintain a stringently clean work area.
Ability to provide patient care appropriate to the demographics and specific needs of the hospital’s patient population.
Proficiency in assessing, responding to, and adapting care to patient needs.
Ability to extend arms and hands in any direction; perform fine motor tasks such as picking, pinching, and typing; and apply pressure with the fingers and palm.
Ability to communicate and exchange ideas verbally and in writing, receive detailed oral and written information, and distinguish sounds in a normal office setting.
Ability to plan and perform varied duties using knowledge of applicable policies and procedures, exercise judgment, work independently toward general results, and adapt standard procedures to different conditions.
Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships within the department and across hospital departments, and develop relationships with patients, employees, regulatory agencies, vendors, and the public.
Ability to accept constructive feedback and take appropriate corrective action.
Ability to present clinical findings to a multidisciplinary team and make evidence-based, patient-centered recommendations.
Demonstrate sound professional judgment consistent with clinical or academic background.
Comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulations, and organizational policies and procedures.
Possess the necessary physical capabilities, with or without reasonable accommodation or mechanical devices, to perform the essential functions safely.

Nice To Haves

Experience working on a team.
American Heart Association Basic Life Support Provider certification.

Responsibilities

Assist with routine medication preparation and inventory management.
Prepare and compound non-sterile and sterile compounds, including hazardous medications, in accordance with Maine and federal rules and laws.
Calculate medication dosages and maintain continuing education relevant to pharmacy practice and sterile compounding.
Issue pharmacy supplies to hospital departments.
Perform tasks required to support safe and efficient medication therapy.
Monitor medication administration and assist with verification of medication orders for dose, interactions, compatibility, allergies, contraindications, and appropriateness.
Conduct daily clinical chart reviews during assigned shifts, assess therapy and high-risk medication use, intervene when necessary, and document appropriately.
Create targeted interventions to reduce readmission risk, optimize therapy, and improve medication safety.
Provide drug information and treatment recommendations to providers and staff, including cost-effective options.
Follow medical staff clinical guidelines and evaluate patient history when making clinical decisions.
Consult with physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, registered dieticians, and other multidisciplinary team members.
Work in centralized and decentralized settings, including the pharmacy, oncology department, ambulatory care practices, emergency department, intensive care unit, and other applicable areas.
Counsel patients on new or modified medications at discharge.
Dispense medications to automated dispensing cabinets and/or nursing units with patient safety in mind and in compliance with applicable laws.
Verify technician-prepared compounded medication products for accuracy, sterility, and stability.
Supervise Pharmacy Technicians.
Assist with medication area inspections throughout the organization.
Participate in departmental performance improvement projects and departmental and organizational continuous quality improvement activities.
Perform general clerical duties for the department.
Attend relevant hospital in-service programs, committees, required events, pharmacy training programs, and staff meetings.
Use hospital equipment and reference materials carefully; perform routine cleaning and preventative maintenance and keep work areas clean and organized.
Complete required competencies and annual compliance courses on time.
Complete required hazardous waste training for employees identified as Waste Handler-Satellite Collection Area.
Report to work as scheduled or communicate deviations to the Director of Pharmacy and Employee Health, if applicable.
Follow appearance, risk management, safety, security, infection control, health system, and departmental requirements.
Work cooperatively with staff, communicate concerns and suggestions appropriately, and adapt to interruptions and changes in workload.
Perform additional duties consistent with the role as directed by the Director of Pharmacy.