Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 9:53 PM AWST

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Assist with basic dispensing of prescriptions

Assist with basic dispensing of prescriptions

Unit of competency
National Code
HLTPH314B
State Code
D8421
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
25/03/2011
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
01/08/2011
Field of Education
060501 - Pharmacy
Original Release Date
01/08/2011
Nominal Hours
50
Description
DescriptorThis unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to assist with the preparation of prescriptions according to legal and good pharmacy practice requirements
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Accept prescription for dispensing
  • 1.1 Collect prescription and confirm client details
  • 1.2 Identify the prescriber and area initiating the order for the purpose of costing and computer entry
  • 1.3 Confirm the legality, validity and completeness of the prescription
  • 1.4 Report discrepancies to pharmacist
  • 1.5 Determine cost of medication and provide appropriate information to client
  • 1.6 Advise client of any foreseen difficulty in filling the prescription
  • 1.7 Advise client of approximate waiting time and collection arrangements
  • 1.8 Accept payment and issue receipt
2. Ensure clinical evaluation of prescription by pharmacist
  • 2.1 Refer prescription to pharmacist for clinical evaluation
  • 2.2 Confirm pharmacist's clinical evaluation before filling the prescription
  • 2.3 Complete any special documentation
3. Prepare labels according to legal requirements
  • 3.1 Prepare prescription labels to meet legal and regulatory requirements
  • 3.2 Identify procedures to deal with contraventions of law
  • 3.3 Check information on labels for accuracy, according to the prescription requirements
  • 3.4 Check that information on labels is neat, clear, easily understood and in line with legal requirements
  • 3.5 Add appropriate cautionary and advisory labels (either incorporated into label or attached separately)
4. Enter data in to dispensing computer
  • 4.1 Enter dispensing data accurately into pharmacy computer system
  • 4.2 Use barcode technology for the dispensing process in line with local Pharmacy Board guidelines
  • 4.3 Check accuracy of data entered against information from prescription and labels
5. Calculate prescription quantities
  • 5.1 Calculate quantities of each item according to the prescription
  • 5.2 Annotate the prescription
  • 5.3 Refer prescription to pharmacist if uncertain about prescription details or prescribed quantity
6. Assemble prescription items according to good dispensing practice
  • 6.1 Select prescribed products in the desired form in line with local Pharmacy Board guidelines and the Pharmaceutical Defence Ltd guidelines for good dispensing practice
  • 6.2 Package correct quantity into a suitable container
  • 6.3 Attach correct label (and ancillary label if applicable) to container
  • 6.4 Check packed item for accuracy
  • 6.5 Check visibility of expiry date
  • 6.6 Annotate prescription with the quantity supplied, signature and date
  • 6.7 Assemble items for an easy and complete check by the pharmacist
7. Finalise prescription and documentation
  • 7.1 Verify that prescription is checked and signed by the pharmacist
  • 7.2 Complete documentation in accordance with organisation policies and procedures
  • 7.3 Record relevant information and statistics according to organisation policies and procedures
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
C9425 HLTPH314A Assist with basic dispensing of prescriptions Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
WD258 HLTPH316A Assist with dispensing of prescriptions and medication orders Unit of competency
State Code National Code Title Type
D041 HLT31407 Certificate III in Hospital/Health Services Pharmacy Support Qualification