Modification History
The version details of this endorsed unit are in the table below. The latest information is at the top.
Release |
Comments |
First Release |
This is a revised unit, based on and equivalent to SIRPDIS003A Assist in dispensary operations. |
Unit Descriptor
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to work in a dispensary to assist with the preparation of prescriptions. The dispensary assistant’s role is limited to those functions that do not require the exercise of professional judgement or discretion with regard to prescriptions.
Application of the Unit
This unit applies to dispensary assistants working in the dispensary area of a community pharmacy.
A person undertaking this role is required to work under the direct supervision of a pharmacist.
Licensing/Regulatory Information
All relevant federal, state or territory legislation, Pharmacy Board of Australia Guidelines, and established practice and quality assurance standards are to be met.
Pre-Requisites
SIRCDIS301 |
Accept prescriptions and return dispensed medicines to customers |
SIRCHCS201 |
Support the supply of Pharmacy Medicines and Pharmacist Only Medicines |
Employability Skills Information
This unit contains employability skills.
Elements and Performance Criteria Pre-Content
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT |
PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency. |
Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide. |
1. Check prescription details. |
1.1.Check patient details and prescription details to ensure prescription is complete and valid. 1.2.Refer incomplete or invalid prescriptions to pharmacist for action. |
2. Enter prescription information. |
2.1.Enter patient and prescription details from original prescription into the dispensing computer system. 2.2.Check that entered electronic data matches patient and prescription details. 2.3.Refer to pharmacist to check patient record and dispensing software flagged medication interactions. 2.4.Use computer software to select and record any brand change. 2.5.Ensure prescriber’s specific directions are entered for the medication label. 2.6.Generate one printed label for each pack, repeat authorisations and Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) where applicable. |
3. Select and label prescribed medications. |
3.1.Refer to original prescription document to accurately select medications manually or robotically and check medication, strength and quantity. 3.2.Check printed label for expiry date, directions for use, drug strength and quantity against original prescription and apply to each pack. 3.3.Apply appropriate cautionary and advisory labels . 3.4.Ensure important information on manufacturer’s label is not obscured by pharmacy labels. 3.5.Swipe barcode with scanner and check on computer screen for drug name, patient’s name, address and date. |
4. Assemble prescribed medications and finalise documentation. |
4.1.Assemble prescribed medicines with all relevant documentation and counselling aids. 4.2.Ensure dispensing pharmacist checks all items belonging to the prescription. 4.3.Place in a container that leaves all items visible. 4.4.Place container in pharmacy-designated private collection location for return of prescription medication to customer. |
Required Skills and Knowledge
This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit. |
Required skills |
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Required knowledge |
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Evidence Guide
The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package. |
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Overview of assessment |
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Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit |
Evidence of the ability to:
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Context of and specific resources for assessment |
Assessment must ensure that competency is:
Assessment must ensure access to:
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Method of assessment |
A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:
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Guidance information for assessment |
Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended. |
Range Statement
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included. |
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Patient details may include: |
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Prescription details may include: |
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Prescription may include: |
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Patient record may include: |
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Cautionary and advisory labels may include: |
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Important information may include: |
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Unit Sector(s)
Community Pharmacy
Competency field
Dispensary