16 Medication Technician Skills for Your Career and Resume

A medication technician is a health care professional who dispenses and administers medications to patients. This job requires a wide range of skills, from customer service and communication to organization and detail-oriented work. If you are interested in becoming a medication technician, it is important to understand the skills that are necessary for the job.

Flexibility

Flexibility is the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Medication technicians often work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics and private practices. They may also be asked to perform duties outside their normal job description, such as filling out insurance forms or answering phones. Being flexible can help medication technicians adapt to these changes and provide excellent service to patients and employers alike.

Vital Signs

Vital signs is a skill that medication technicians use to monitor the health of patients. They may need to check blood pressure, body temperature and pulse regularly to ensure their patients are safe during treatment. This can help them determine if any changes in these readings require medical attention or adjustments to treatment plans.

Pharmacy Technician

Pharmacy technicians often work in pharmacies, where they use their knowledge of medication and pharmacy practices to fill prescriptions for patients. They may also train as a pharmacist after working as a technician for several years. Pharmacy technicians need to know how to read and interpret medical records, understand the effects medications can have on patients and accurately measure ingredients when preparing prescription drugs.

Attention to Detail

Medication technicians must be able to follow precise instructions when preparing medications. They also need to ensure that they have the correct medication, dosage and administration method for each patient. This requires attention to detail so that patients receive the treatment they need. Medication technicians should also keep accurate records of their work and any changes in a patient’s condition.

Communication

Communication is the ability to convey information clearly. Medication technicians often communicate with patients, doctors and other medical staff members. They also need to be able to explain complex medical terminology in a way that patients can understand. This skill is especially important when working with patients who have limited English proficiency.

Medication Administration

Medication technicians often use their knowledge of medication administration to prepare and administer medications. This skill involves knowing how to measure the correct dosage, reading patient information and recording treatment details. It also includes understanding any side effects that may occur after taking a medication.

Anatomy & Physiology

Anatomy and physiology is the study of how the body works. Medication technicians should have a basic understanding of human anatomy to understand how medications affect different parts of the body. For example, they may need to know where certain organs are located in order to accurately prepare injections or administer pills.

Injections

Medication technicians often use injections to administer medications. This includes giving shots in the arm, thigh or other body parts and using needles for subcutaneous injections. Injections are a common way to deliver medication, so it’s important that you know how to give them correctly. You can learn this skill by taking a course on injections and practicing with a trainer or colleague.

Interpersonal Skills

Medication technicians must be able to communicate with patients and other medical professionals. They should also have the ability to work well in a team, as they may often work alongside registered nurses or physicians. Medication technicians should also be friendly and compassionate when interacting with patients.

Medical Terminology

Medical terminology is the language used by medical professionals to describe body parts, diseases and treatments. It’s important for medication technicians to have a strong understanding of medical terminology so they can accurately read patient records and understand instructions from physicians. Medical terminology also helps them communicate with patients about their treatment plan and answer any questions they may have.

Patience

Medication technicians must be patient when working with patients and physicians. They may need to wait for a doctor’s approval before administering medication or wait while the medicine takes effect. Patience can help them remain calm in emergency situations, such as an allergic reaction, where they need to act quickly to save a life.

Charting

Medication technicians use charts to record patient information, medication doses and treatment outcomes. They also create graphs that illustrate how medications affect patients’ conditions over time. This is an important skill because it allows technicians to track the effects of treatments and identify any potential side effects or complications. It also helps them determine if a treatment is effective so they can change or alter their methods accordingly.

Wound Care

Medication technicians often use their knowledge of wound care to help patients with injuries. They may apply bandages, clean wounds and change dressings. This skill set can also be useful in a hospital or clinic setting where medication technicians work directly with patients.

Wound care involves knowing how to handle different types of wounds and the tools needed for treatment. Medication technicians should also know how to prevent infection when treating wounds.

IV Therapy

Medication technicians use intravenous therapy to administer medications directly into a patient’s bloodstream. This requires the ability to read and understand medical charts, identify veins for insertion and monitor patients’ reactions to treatment. Medication technicians also use intramuscular injections to deliver medication through muscle tissue. This requires knowledge of anatomical locations and how different medications affect the body.

Patient Assessment

Patient assessment is the ability to assess a patient’s needs and determine what treatment they need. Medication technicians often work with patients who have chronic conditions, so it’s important for them to be able to listen to their concerns and explain how medications can help them manage their health.

Organization

Organization is the ability to keep track of multiple tasks and responsibilities. Medication technicians often have many duties, including preparing medications, maintaining equipment and supplies, recording data and following safety protocols. Having strong organizational skills can help medication technicians stay on task and complete their work efficiently. It’s also important for them to maintain a clean workspace so they can easily find what they need when preparing medications.

How Can I Learn These Medication Technician Skills?

There are a few ways that you can learn the necessary skills to become a Medication Technician. You can take classes at a local community college or online. You can also find many resources and training programs through hospitals, clinics, and professional organizations. Many of these programs will provide you with the opportunity to shadow or work with a licensed Medication Technician to gain hands-on experience.