Pharmacy Nonsterile Compounding

Non-sterile compound refers to the process of combining, admixing, diluting, reconstituting, pooling, and otherwise altering a drug or bulk drug substance to create a non-sterile preparation that is different that shown in the manufacture’s labeling information. The purpose of this type of compounding is to create emulsions, liquids, powders, ointments, and other forms of medications per a provider’s order or prescription to meet the unique needs of a patient. A compounding pharmacy technician is trained to be a part of the pharmacy team to make these formulations under the supervision of a compounding pharmacist. They may also prepare the compounding environment and equipment, properly clean the compounding environment and equipment, maintain the equipment, manage the inventory, and interact with the pharmacy’s customers. This course provides the knowledge and skills to perform non-sterile compounding tasks. It is assumed that learners have successfully completed the pharmacy technician course.

Program Objectives

After completing this program, learners will be able to:

• Define terminology and acronyms used in nonsterile compounding.
• Explain the various laws and regulations related to nonsterile compounding.
• Describe the role of the pharmacy technician in nonsterile compounding.
• Identify the pharmacy references available for use in nonsterile compounding.
• Describe the characteristics of the drugs and components used in nonsterile compounding.
• Describe the dosage forms and associated routes of administration for nonsterile compounded medications.
• Explain the different types of medication container closure systems and packaging for nonsterile compounded products.
• Identify nonsterile compounding equipment including procedures for calibration, cleaning, maintenance, and proper use.
• Identify the disposable supplies used in nonsterile compounding procedures including their proper uses.
• Explain the procedures for cleaning, sanitation, and infection control in nonsterile compounding procedures.
• Explain how to properly weigh, measure, and mix products.
• Explain the compounding process for each nonsterile dosage form.
• Explain how to minimize and monitor for potential for errors in nonsterile compounding procedures.
• Identify the PPE required for nonsterile compounding procedures.
• Distinguish between HD and non-HD compounding areas and procedures.
• Discuss environmental monitoring for nonsterile compounding facilities including the calibration, maintenance, and use of equipment for temperature, humidity, and pressure.
• Discuss quality assurance and quality control processes including documentation for nonsterile compounding procedures.

Certification Opportunities

This course assists learners in preparing for the following certifications. Note: Learners must pass a certification exam and in some case, document a specified amount of work experience, in order to be eligible for certification.

	National Workforce Career Association (NWCA) Pharmacy Non-Sterile Compounding Certification (PNSCC) Certification
	Pharmacy Technician Certified Board (PTCB) Nonsterile Compounding Certificate

Optional Volunteer Externship Opportunity

Learners who complete this program are eligible to participate in an optional volunteer externship opportunity with a local company/agency/organization whose work aligns with this area of study in order to gain valuable hands-on experience.  As learners progress through their eLearning program, an Externship Coordinator will reach out to coordinate placement.

Note: Additional documentation including health records, immunizations, drug-screening, criminal background checks, etc. may be required by the externship facility.