Sunday, August 23, 2015

Working In A Clinical Pharmacy La Jolla

By Shawn Hunter


There are attractive and lucrative professions in the healthcare industry. Working in a pharmacy La Jolla or as a clinical pharmacist is one of them. These specialized medical professionals are in high demand to service the public whether in a hospital setting or other clinical setting. They also can easily get advanced training by attending seminars and conferences. They are vital resources for physicians and patients alike and are drawing more and more candidates of all genders and nationalities.

So how do you get to this great career opportunity? It all begins in high school in chemistry and/or science lab. You prepare for college with a strong foundation in just the right subjects. As you continue along the road to your final destination, you will have to pass the PCAT or the Pharmacy College Admissions Test. This is by no means the only one in your path, so read on.

A minimum of four years of coursework must be done in an accredited institution as determined by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education. You can include an internship where you will learn how to administer patient care and observe drug addiction among other things. It has to be under the aegis of a licensed clinical pharmacist. There is no better way to acquire adequate work preparation.

There is more. Upon graduation and receiving a doctorate, you must take and pass the NAPLEX or the examination for North American pharmacist Licensure that has been established by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. Only qualified candidates then become licensed practitioners. It is a very controlled field.

Now you are ready to become a clinical pharmacist and work in patient care or research. You may elect to accept a residency at a local hospital to gain additional hands-on experience. Duties will vary, but most cover patient observation and education about prescription medication. Any study of drug addiction will come in handy at this time.

Drug administration can be oral, by injection, or intravenous tube. Clinical practitioners will understand all aspects of medicinal treatment from the time the patient takes the drugs to any subsequent side effects and reactions. They will analyze patient progress and take notes that will form part of a medical record. This helps the patient's primary physician a great deal in proceeding with the right treatment and making adjustments as indicated.

Clinical pharmacists keep track of the medical history of a patient, particularly as it pertains to medication. Records and observations should be detailed and accurate including negative or allergic reactions. A working relationship with a physician adds additional responsibility to the job.

As such, a clinical pharmacist makes a good income in proportion to his or her education and overall experience. The average is around the $85,000 range, but can go higher over time. It is a long road, but ultimately a rewarding one that reaps many benefits beyond just income. Choosing this field is a wise one indeed for those with the right credentials.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment