NACC Pharmacy Assistant Diploma

NACC Pharmacy Assistant Course Online
Next program start dates:
Monday, October 7, 2024
Monday, November 4, 2024
Apply Online
Offered monthly at our Calgary Campus for Calgary and area residents
Engaging Classrooms
Passionate and knowledgeable instructors use both practical and theory components for easy learning
Real Pharmacy Experience
Students practice their skills in a mock pharmacy lab on-campus and have an extended 8-week practicum in a real pharmacy
Industry-Standard Software
Students learn first-hand with software programs that are mostly used in modern pharmacy settings
Diploma
Certificate

NACC Pharmacy Assistant Diploma

Certificate

NACC Pharmacy Assistant Diploma

Duration

40 Weeks

Campus

Toronto

Offered

On-site

Available

Evening

NACC Pharmacy Assistant Diploma Summary

ABM College’s NACC Pharmacy Assistant Diploma Program provides a comprehensive education that prepares students for the diverse responsibilities of a Pharmacy Assistant. The curriculum covers both technical and clerical aspects, including medication dispensing, inventory management, and customer service. Students engage in hands-on learning through realistic simulation labs and gain essential certifications in CPR and First Aid, equipping them to handle emergencies in a healthcare setting.

The program culminates in an intensive 5-week practicum, offering invaluable real-world experience. This practicum allows students to apply their knowledge in professional settings, building confidence and practical skills. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared to work in any retail pharmacy environment. The combination of classroom learning, hands-on training, and real-world experience ensures that graduates are highly qualified and ready to excel in their careers.

Take the "ABM College Digital Arts Career Training Readiness" Quiz
HCA PLAR Student Guide

NACC Pharmacy Assistant Diploma Highlights

Discover key features of the NACC Pharmacy Assistant Diploma program:

  • Learn the roles of a Pharmacy Assistant in a community / retail environment.
  • Study the mathematical calculations and clerical skills required for proper dosage, compounding, and inventory maintenance.
  • Gain an understanding of the effects of medications on anatomy and physiology.
  • Earn life saving CPR and First Aid Certifications.
  • Learn to use industry standard Pharmacy Management Software to effectively assist clients with all their pharmacological needs.

Career Opportunities

  • Pharmacy Assistant
  • Compounding Pharmacy Assistant
  • Pharmacy Distribution Clerk

Salary Range

NACC Pharmacy Assistant Diploma Information Kit

This kit includes important details on the NACC Pharmacy Assistant Diploma program at ABM College.

Note: For non-domestic students with a study permit or visa, please see our International Students form here.

Submitting...
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Is this program right for you?

Take our quick readiness quiz.

The fun online quiz will take you less than 5 minutes to complete and will help us understand your career goals and the kind of setting where you would be most comfortable working.

Take the quiz
NACC Pharmacy Assistant Diploma

Admission Requirements

Standard Admission

1. Successful completion of Grade 12 or equivalent. 2. High School transcripts for senior year - Math, English, and Science. 3. Passing score on the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam. 4. Passing score on the Accuplacer Test. 5. Successful interview with ABM College Admissions.

Mature Admission

1. Applicants must be out of high school for at least two years. 2. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age prior to admission. 3. Passing score on the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam. 4. Passing score on the Accuplacer Test. 5. Successful interview with ABM College Admissions.

Detailed & International Requirements

For any other program or region-specific requirements, please contact one of our Admissions Advisors. For International Students, please refer to the International Students Admission Requirements.

Domestic Detailed Admission Requirements

Thank you ABM College for helping me in several ways to upgrade my skills and abilities. I was able to get my professional certificate which will open doors for me in getting employment opportunities in the field of Healthcare.

Biruk beza Lewi

Course Curriculum

Introduction to Pharmacy Practice

This subject introduces the student to the practice of Pharmacy within the Canadian Health Care System. Topics include health care and pharmacy team members, responsibilities and inter- relationships, history of Pharmacy and the role of the Pharmacy in the Canadian Health Care System, professionalism, Standards of Practice, Code of Ethics, Pharmacy professional associations and regulatory bodies, career opportunities, and current trends and issues as they relate to the practice of pharmacy and the future of the pharmacy assistant.

Human Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology with Medical Terminology

This subject provides students with a basic knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of body systems and their associated disorders. The emphasis is on the anatomical areas most affected by drugs. Students are introduced to the study of normal body system structures and function, the recognition of various homeostatic imbalances, basis chemistry, common diseases and disorders, pharmacy assistant in the pharmacy setting.

Introduction to Computers, Applications and Keyboarding

This subject provides students with a basic understanding of computer hardware and software components and introduces them to the use of a windows-based operating system and related useful applications such as word processing, spreadsheet, databases, presentation packages, the internet and email. Students will operate microcomputers independently, organize related files and folders, produce professional looking documents, send, and manage email, and use the Internet to research information. This course also helps students who do not type to develop correct typing techniques through the use of lecture and typing tutor software. They learn how to use the keyboard, the proper fingering positions, and how to type without looking at the keyboard. Students much achieve a minimum of 40 wpm (net) to pass the Pharmacy Assistant program.

Interpersonal Skills, Communication, Problem Solving and Client Services

In professional settings, where people meet and work with a diverse public, respecting social or cultural differences and communicating intentions clearly are essential. In this course, students learn effective interpersonal communication skills for managing effective customer service and work relationships, for gaining voluntary compliance and for managing conflicts within a multicultural society. Students participate in role-playing exercises to identify and respond to verbal and non-verbal forms of communication and to identify factors that facilitate or obstruct effective communication. This course also provides a review of basic skills in English grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure with an emphasis on improving written communications.

Pharmaceutical Calculations

This subject introduces students to the types of calculations used in pharmacy on a regular basis. Students begin with a review of basic mathematical operations covering fractions, decimals, ratio, proportion and percentage then progress to performing the more complex calculations required for calculation of medication dosages and solutions, prescription pricing and retail mathematics. Emphasis is placed on accuracy and the prevention of errors. Multiple problems and exercises are included to allow students to practice their skills and reinforce learning. Note: Students continue to practice Pharmaceutical Calculations - in Subject Modules #7 through #12 that follow.

Pharmaceutical Law and Ethics

In this subject, students are introduced to a number of ethical issues including classic bioethics and contemporary healthcare ethics. Students will be challenged to reflect on their own values and beliefs, and through discussion, to explore those held by others. Students are also introduced to Federal and Provincial drug legislation as it relates to pharmacy practice including patient privacy requirements, a description of federal and provincial drug schedules (prescription and nonprescription), the legal requirements for a prescription, narcotic and controlled drug requirements and record keeping and retention. Note - Pharmaceutical Law and Ethics course material will be reinforced and expanded on in Subject Modules #7 thru #13 that follow.

Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Fundamentals

This subject introduces students to the general concepts of pharmacology and the principles of drug action including pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and toxicologic aspects and applications. Drug classifications as related to their action on the body and the therapeutic classifications as defined in the Ontario Drug Benefit Formulary are studied, including the actions of each drug classification as well as some of the more common side effects, contraindications, and drug interactions. Students also gain a working knowledge of the drugs used in the treatment of various diseases and disorders including drug classification, use, therapeutic effects, side/adverse effects, brand/generic names, dosage forms, routes of administration, commonly used dosage strengths and directions for use of these medications. Proper use of auxiliary labels is also covered.

Compounding

In this course, students develop skills in compounding a variety of non-sterile products including various mixtures, creams and ointments, solutions and suspensions. Students become familiar with the types of equipment used in compounding products and how to properly use and care for it. They learn to calculate the appropriate amount of each ingredient, use the correct compounding techniques, apply corresponding quality assurance procedures and compound according to those laws, regulations, and standards that govern the preparation of non-sterile products. Accuracy in calculations, weighing and measuring chemicals, and timely and accurate completion of records are emphasized.

Sterile Products and Introduction to Institutional Practice

The focus of this course is on aseptic techniques and sterile product preparation as they apply to institutional care settings, including an introduction to the delivery of pharmacy services in a hospital setting. Topics include microbiology and disease transmission, infection control and methods to prevent the spread of disease and provide personal protection, W.H.M.I.S. and handling of bio-hazardous materials. The importance of aseptic technique to ensure sterility is emphasized. Students will gain experience on the types of equipment used in parenteral compounding, the preparation of intravenous admixtures and other parenteral products. Emphasis is placed on accurate dispensing techniques including methods of checking work for accuracy. Students are also introduced to hospital organization and structure, related legislation and regulatory requirements.

Introduction to Pharmacy Management Software

This course introduces students to pharmacy management software systems and the role of computers in pharmacy practice including the history of computers in pharmacy practice, current practice applications and future trends. Students gain hands-on practice using pharmacy software such as Nexxsys and Kroll for updating and creating patient, drug, doctor, and mixture profiles; prescription processing; inventory control and purchasing; third party billing procedures; automatic scheduling of tasks; generation of daily, weekly and monthly reports; and other tasks. Legal and ethical issues surrounding information collection and retrieval are also reviewed.

Retail Pharmacy Practice

This course is designed to provide the skills necessary to practice effectively in a community pharmacy setting. Students learn how to completely fill a prescription in a laboratory setting. Emphasis is placed on correct dispensing techniques, including interpretation of the prescription, creating / updating patient profiles, calculations, measuring, labeling, packaging, and product presentation. Repeated preparation of sample prescriptions builds the confidence and the accuracy of the student. Particular attention is paid to third party billings and the management of dispensary receivables, both computerized and manual.

CPR and First Aid Certifications

This subject provides certification in Emergency First Aid and Basic Rescuer (level C) CPR. Courses are taught by WSIB authorized providers.

Employment and Career Management

This course helps students prepare for employment, conduct a successful campaign to find employment, and be successful in their career as a Pharmacy Assistant. Topics covered include preparation of a resume, covering letter and thank you letter to use in job search as well as the importance of community service (volunteer) experience.

Clinical Placement

Near the conclusion of the program, students are required to complete 200 hours of clinical work placement in a community pharmacy or similar organizational setting. Activities performed will vary depending on the Clinical Placement site, however, key responsibilities of each student include being supervised by a Clinical Placement host, observing all workplace and school safety and security procedures, dressing appropriately for the Clinical Placement experience, interacting with the Clinical Placement staff respectfully, courteously, and enthusiastically and learning and asking questions about the Clinical Placement staff's jobs, environment and daily routine. Specific activities during placement may include assisting the pharmacist.

Review and NACC Final Examinations

NACC exam quick refresher and preparation.

I understand that by submitting this form, I consent to be contacted by email, phone, or any other form of communication by ABM College. My consent can be withdrawn at any time.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.