DAC Introduction To The Course

Buttercups Training
Dispensing Assistant Course
Introduction
Welcome to the Buttercups Dispensing Assistant Course!
This course is designed to be completed by pharmacy support staff involved in the supply or
Introduction
manufacture of prescribed medicines or the management of pharmacy stock. It has been written by
Buttercups Training Ltd.
Upon successful completion of this course you will be a qualified Dispensing/Pharmacy Assistant and
will have met the Pharmacy Regulator's minimum requirements for staff working in pharmacy
dispensaries.
How to use these materials
The training materials within this course are designed to provide you with a comprehensive account
of the information you need to perform as an effective Dispensing Assistant. They have been
compiled using our pharmacists knowledge and experience as well as the relevant and up-to-date
reference sources used in pharmacy. The pages that follow do not contain everything you will ever
need to know - current theory and practice are constantly changing and progressing but they will
provide a very strong foundation for a knowledgeable and professional Dispensing Assistant.
Each module is broken down into smaller sections relating to a particular aspect of pharmacy. This
allows you to work at your own pace; you can tackle each section on an individual basis without the
need to endure long study sessions, which are not always welcome after a hard day at work. Please
be aware that you are not expected to remember every single fact and piece of information in this
course. You should, of course, do your best to understand the information covered and put it into
practice; and the course materials and workbook should be kept safe so that you can refer back to
them once you are qualified.
Buttercups Training
Introduction
Throughout the course we use several symbols to help draw your attention to important points and guide
you through the material. The material is also set out so that important information is highlighted to
make it clearer and easier to follow.
Tick: This symbol is used to highlight a checklist or contents page
Scales: This symbol is used to highlight legal or professional matters
Medicine bottle: This symbol indicates a conventional medicine or treatment is being discussed
Green Leaf: This symbol indicates an alternative therapy or herbal treatment is being discussed
E.g.: This symbol is used when we talk about a specific example to explain a concept or
treatment
Conical Flask: This symbol is used when we suggest an experiment or a practical activity for you
to try out
Pencil: This symbol is used when we ask you to write something or complete an activity
Green cross: This symbol is used whenever we provide information about referring to the
pharmacist
Speech bubble: This symbol is used to highlight advice or useful information you can give to your
customers
Exclamation mark: This symbol is used to highlight very important information or warnings that
you must be aware of
Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 2

Copyright Buttercups Training Ltd
Buttercups Training
Introduction
Course Structure
The Modules
The course modules provide the underpinning knowledge for the qualification.
Most students will complete modules 1-12, however, those involved in the manufacture of medicines
within hospitals and manufacturing units will need to complete additional modules (and possibly omit one
or more of the first 12 modules) to ensure the course meets their needs . If you are involved in the
manufacture of medicines you will be advised which modules to complete upon enrolment.
The objectives for each module can be found in the course matrix which follows this introduction and are
repeated on the first page of each module. Any reference sources needed are also given at the start of the
module.
You should record the title of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that are relevant to each module
either in the space provided on page 1, or within your workbook. SOPs are introduced in Module 1 and
whilst studying this course you must ensure you locate and read the ones relevant to your role as staff
must abide by them at all times.
The Workbook Tasks
After each module there is a set of activities to complete which can be found at the back of your shrink-
wrapped paper course or listed under each module for those completing the online version. These vary
from module to module and are designed to allow you to demonstrate your understanding of the module
and how to apply the knowledge you have acquired to your working practice.
The a nswers written in your workbook a nd a ll da tes a nd signa tures must be in ink.
The completed tasks do not need to be sent to Buttercups for assessment at the end of each module but
they must be completed and kept in a safe place as they may need to be submitted for verification at any
time, even after you have completed the course. Note that for learners undertaking this as part of an
apprenticeship programme (BTEC) all tasks must be submitted to Buttercups for assessment at the end of
the course.
At the end of each module's tasks your pharmacist/pharmacy technician will need to review your answers.
Once this is done, they then sign the declaration for that module to confirm they have reviewed the work
and are satisfied you are competently putting the knowledge acquired into practice.
The Workbook Multiple-Choice Assessment Questions
Once the declaration has been completed by your pharmacist/pharmacy technician you should
complete the multiple-choice assessment questions for the module.
These can be completed either online or on paper but it makes sense to complete this assessment
online if possible; your results will be given instantly and your record will be updated immediately to
show you have achieved the module.

Buttercups Training
Introduction
Pass Marks
The pass mark for each module is 70% except for calculations where you must achieve 100%.
Online submission
The online test portal is accessed through your course website once you have logged in.
When completing the assessment online you will be given three attempts to pass the test. However, if
you do not reach the pass mark on the first attempt you will have a delay of between 1 and 7 days
(depending on the score) before you are able to resit. This is to allow you further time to study and
develop your knowledge on the subject.
If you do not pass on your second attempt you will be permanently locked out before your third
attempt. You must then contact Buttercups so that we have an opportunity to discuss your learning
with your pharmacist, in order to support you, before we will allow you to take the test for the third
and final time.
Postal submission
Your name and pharmacy address must be written on each sheet. Photocopy your answers before
sending the originals to Buttercups for marking.
Homework is marked on receipt and returned to your pharmacy by 2nd class mail within 48 hours. If
you have not received your work within a week please contact us.
The a nswers to the multiple-choice questions must be written in ink a nd a ma ximum of two
modules should be submitted for ma rking a t a ny time.
If you do not pass a module the questions answered incorrectly will be identified and you will be
given the opportunity to submit them again. If you do not pass on resubmission we will discuss your
progress with your pharmacist to ensure you have sufficient understanding and support, before you
are given a final attempt to pass.
Course Duration
The course will typically take six months to complete, this is based on the assumption that at least two
modules will be completed each month. If you fall behind, please get in touch so we can work together to
get you back on track.
A sample learning log is available on the course website (see below*) which can be used to set target
dates and record your progress. Alternatively, the course matrix which follows has a blank column which
can be used to record target and completion dates if preferred.
*Candidates completing this course as part of a funded programme e.g. as part of an apprenticeship,
must complete the learning logs issued by the Funding Team at Buttercups.

Buttercups Training
Introduction
Study Techniques, Hints and Tips
In order to get the most out of your training it is important to study on a regular basis and in a logical
manner. Some of you may have recently finished school or further education and will have found your
own ways to manage your time and study, for others it may have been some time since you last read a
textbook! Everyone learns in different ways and its important to work out the best way for you,
including how studying can fit into your lifestyle and around your other responsibilities. Ultimately, you
are responsible for your own learning; no-one can learn it for you, it is up to you!
This section provides you with some hints and tips on good study technique, the basis of which is to study
small sections of material for short periods at a time allowing you to keep focused on the information
being presented to you.
1. Manage your time
If you work full time you may only have evenings and weekends to study, in any case your free
time must now include study time. Allow yourself a set amount of time to study every day or every
other day and stick to it; for example, one hour every Monday, Thursday and Friday after
Eastenders! Of course you still have the same responsibilities and demands on your time so you
should let family and friends know that this is your study time and that its important not to be
disturbed.
Many companies give their employees time to study at work. You should speak to your pharmacist
or manager and find out how much time you will be given and when you will be allowed to study.
This time at work is an ideal opportunity to resolve any queries you may have; by asking your
pharmacist questions, by talking to your colleagues, by looking at reference books found in the
pharmacy and by studying the medicines found on your shelves.
2. Create a study space
If you can, prepare a study area in your home where you can keep all of your study materials
ready to use, this will save you time each time you come to study. This study area should be free
of distractions such as televisions or radios and remember to let your family know not to disturb
you. Make sure all your pens, paper, highlighters and other stationery are ready and waiting for
you to use.
3. Study for short periods and take breaks
Most people can only concentrate continuously for short periods before becoming bored or
distracted. It is therefore a good idea to split up one study hour into two 25 minute sessions,
each followed by a 5 minute break. Leave your study area to give you a mental break; make a cup
of tea, go for a walk, do not think about studying!

Buttercups Training
Introduction
4. Plan your study
Plan what you are going to study in each session so that you can get straight into it without wasting
time deciding what to do. Focus on a small section of the course material at one time so that you
are learning about the same thing; do not confuse matters by moving on to another section without
fully understanding the first.
5. How to study
As mentioned previously, people like to learn in different ways. However, as this is a distance-
learning course you are limited to the techniques you can use. You have a text-book to read,
understand and remember; how you do this is up to you:
You could read a particular section once or twice and then write down what you can
remember. Some people prefer to recite out loud what they can remember.
Check what you have written by reading through the text again.
Some people like to make notes on the course material or highlight text they want to
remember.
Write your own notes about the text; include things you have learnt at work or questions you
want to ask.
Use a dictionary; there are bound to be some words used, whether technical terms or not, that
you are not sure of their meaning. Although we do try to explain technical terms , having a
dictionary to hand will save you time and improve your understanding of the material.
Use reference sources and/or reputable websites to complement your notes and aid
understanding.
6. Review your learning
Take the time to go back over your notes and review what you have learnt. A useful technique is
to review your notes or re-read the course material 24 hours after studying it. Do the same again
seven days later; the material should be very familiar to you by now, you may be surprised by how
much you have learnt!
7. Ask for help
If you cant understand an important concept or theory, ask for help. Your first port of call is your
branch pharmacist; whether it is your pharmacy manager or a locum pharmacist do not feel
embarrassed or shy about asking questions, it is in your pharmacists own interest to help you
become the best dispenser you can be. Write down the questions you want to ask or make a note
of the text you do not understand. Sometimes just having it explained in a different way can help
you understand it. If you have any difficulties with reading, writing or understanding English then
let us know and we will discuss the support available with yourself and your employer.

Buttercups Training
Introduction
8. Remember to have fun
Your learning will be much more effective and long-lasting if you enjoy it! Try not to think of
studying as a chore that must be endured; take an interest in what you are learning, apply it to
your daily role in the pharmacy, practise what you have learned on customers, impress your
colleagues and friends with your new-found knowledge! The more you take an active interest in
the course material, the more you will get out of the course.
Support from Buttercups Training

As part of our commitment to giving our students the highest quality of education, all of the following
benefits are offered to our learners:
You have access to our password protected PeTS website (Pharmacy e-learning Training Service)
which offers online support in the form of course materials, tutorials, course information and much
more
We run a telephone helpline 7 days a week so you can speak to one of us if you need help whenever
you are studying
You can email us at any time with a course query or pharmaceutical query and the appropriate
member of our team will respond as soon as possible. Remember to include your name and the
course you are taking as well as details of your query.
Course editors are available to talk through any course issues with candidates and employers
Our teaching team is on hand to offer students additional support when required
Tutorial sessions can be delivered via telephone during the normal working day
Contact Details
Tel: 0115 9374936

Email: training@buttercups.co.uk
Fax: 0115 9371675
www.buttercups.co.uk
Buttercups Training Ltd

1-2 The Courtyard
Main Street
Keyworth
Nottingham
NG12 5AW

Buttercups Training
Introduction
We hope that you enjoy your training course and the new knowledge and abilities it will give you;
remember, the more effort you put into your learning the more benefits you will get out of it. We are
here to help you as much as we can so please make the most of the resources on offer. The Buttercups
team wishes you every success in your training and for your on-going development in the workplace.
Before continuing with your course, please read the rules and regulations of your course then sign the
learner agreement. This is the agreement between Buttercups Training, your pharmacist and yourself
which sets out the obligations and responsibilities we each have in relation to your learning.
Good Luck!

Buttercups Training
Introduction
Rules and Regulations
Presentation
Your answers to any workbook activities must be written neatly in ink, using full sentences. Work
completed in pencil will be returned unmarked. Only approved abbreviations may be used when writing
your answers e.g. SOP will be accepted for standard operating procedure but words such as patient and
customer must be written in full.
The Dispensing Assistant qualification
To be able to work as a Dispensing Assistant you must be trained for this role. The pharmacy regulator,
which is the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), stipulates that your training must start within
three months and be completed within 3 years. However, Buttercups Training requires you to complete
this course in one year, unless there are extenuating circumstances (see next section). Your employer
has the right to choose a shorter expiry date.
What could happen if you do not complete within the timeframe allowed by Buttercups?
You may be withdrawn from the course

You may have to repeat course work or do further assessments
You may be given an extension based on extenuating circumstances
Your employer may ask you to complete an alternative course
Your employer may cease to employ you as you may not meet the GPhC regulations
What could happen if you fail the course?
You may have to restart the course from the beginning and complete new assessments
You may be withdrawn from the course
Your employer may ask you to complete an alternative Dispensing Assistant course with a different
training provider
Your employer may cease to employ you as you may not meet the GPhC regulations
What happens if you wish to be reinstated to the course after you have been withdrawn?
This will depend on the circumstances of why you were withdrawn; if you were withdrawn due to
failure or malpractice you will not be eligible for reinstatement. If you were withdrawn due to illness,
a change of circumstances or extenuating circumstances then it is possible to be reinstated. Please
contact us at Buttercups for advice as it will depend on the amount of time that has elapsed since
being withdrawn; possible options are:
You will be reinstated at the point you were withdrawn

You will be reinstated at the point you were withdrawn but additional up to date assessments may
be required by your workplace pharmacist
You will be reinstated but will need to restudy the course from the beginning

Buttercups Training
Introduction
What happens if you change employer?
You course can only be transferred to your new employer if you are working in a pharmacy and any
contractual arrangements with your previous employer have been met.
If you have completed part of another pharmacy training course previously then do you
need to complete the whole of this course?
We are not able to accredit prior learning from a previous course, so you will need to complete the
whole of the Buttercups Dispensing Assistant Course to gain your qualification.
What other changes of circumstances should be notified to Buttercups Training Ltd?
If your circumstances change within the pharmacy we need to know about this so that we can ensure
you are still being sufficiently supported to be able to complete this course. Occasionally due to your
change in circumstances we may come and visit you in your workplace or contact you on the telephone
to check on your progress or competence in the workplace.
You must let us know if any of the following occur:
Your supervising pharmacist leaves and a new one arrives

You have no permanent pharmacist and the pharmacy runs on locum cover
The pharmacy changes ownership
The pharmacy moves location
You change your hours or your job role
You have a serious illness which affects your ability to carry out the role
Extenuating circumstances
What are extenuating circumstances?
Extenuating circumstances are circumstances beyond your control which prevented you from submitting
part or all of your coursework within the timeframe required. It could also be the case that you
completed a test or submitted coursework, but your performance was adversely affected by extenuating
circumstances. Although often medical in nature, anything which is unforeseeable or unpreventable may
be considered an extenuating circumstance (for example, a family bereavement).
How do I present details of my extenuating circumstances?
A form in the student handbook which you will find on your course website has been designed to give you
the opportunity to set out the details of your extenuating circumstances. Any evidence in support of your
claim should be submitted with the form to Buttercups Training via recorded mail.

Buttercups Training
Introduction
When do I present details of extenuating circumstances?
Claims for extenuating circumstances should be made at the time the circumstances occurred and must
be submitted if you are unable to send work for more than 6 weeks, or,
Failure of test no later than five working days following the test
What will happen to my completed form?
Your submission will be considered by Buttercups Training and the outcome communicated to you. If the
evidence is accepted you may have the following outcome:
Your original assessment can be nullified

You could be given the opportunity to be assessed on a further occasion
You can be withdrawn from your course until you are well enough to continue
You could have additional time added to your course deadlines
Student Handbook
Buttercups Training provides a student handbook which is available online on the PeTS website once you
have logged in to your course with your username and password. Outlined below is the information that is
available on the website. If you do not have access to this please contact us and we will be able to send
you a copy of the handbook.
Student Grievance: If you are dissatisfied with your course or how you have been treated as a student we
have a stepwise procedure in place to deal with this. In the first instance you should contact our Student
Liaison Officer.
Appeals: If you wish to appeal against an assessment decision on your course then this section of the
handbook will outline how to proceed with this.
Equality and Diversity: We treat all students with respect. If you feel you have been discriminated
against then please follow our grievance procedure. We are also able to make reasonable adjustments
under the Equality Act if you have a disability which could affect your progress through the course. Please
contact Buttercups Training if you would like an adjustment to be made, and we will send out the
necessary form for you to complete.
Plagiarism: All the work submitted must be your own. Any work found to be plagiarised could result in you
being requested to complete additional assignments, or in a serious case being withdrawn from the
course. For more information on plagiarism consult our policy in the student handbook.
Malpractice: If you are concerned that there has been any malpractice by you, a fellow learner, your
supervising pharmacist or any staff from Buttercups Training then this policy will help explain what you
should do. Malpractice is essentially any activity or practice which deliberately contravenes regulations
and compromises the integrity of the assessment process and/or the validity of certificates.

Buttercups Training
Introduction
Learner Agreement
This agreement is between you, the Learner, the Supervising Pharmacist and Buttercups Training Ltd.
This Learner Agreement must be discussed by the Learner and Supervising Pharmacist prior to the start
of the course.
By completing this Learner Agreement and returning it to Buttercups with the homework assessment
questions from Module 1 you are also consenting to us storing your data electronically.
Learners Responsibilities:
I will take responsibility for my course, making sure I meet all of my targets and deadlines.
All work I submit for assessment will be my own.
I will actively participate in all learning activities whilst on this course.
I will ask for support from my Employer or Buttercups Training Ltd if I am unsure, or do not
understand any aspect of my course or assessment
I will contact Buttercups Training Ltd if I require a paper copy of the student handbook.
I will contact Buttercups Training Ltd if there is any change to my circumstances
I will contact Buttercups Training Ltd if I require any adjustment for my course under the
Equality Act
Supervising Pharmacists Responsibilities:
I will provide you with study time where possible.

I will support you throughout the course.
I will ensure that you are working in the appropriate area to be able to complete your course.
I will support you in making sure all your work meets the requirements stated.
Buttercups Responsibilities:
We treat all learners with fairness regardless of age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, race,
gender, religion, marriage or civil partnership, or pregnancy.
We will respond to all enquiries in a timely manner.
We will follow procedures laid down in the student handbook
All submitted work will be assessed by qualified staff within a reasonable time period.

Buttercups Training
Introduction
Data protection consent:
Under UK and European Data Protection legislation, data from which living individuals can be identified
are classed as 'personal data'. The handling of personal data has to comply with legal requirements
covering such things as the way in which this information is acquired, how it is processed and the
extent to which it is disclosed or transferred to others. Buttercups Training needs to store data about
you and your course progress.
The data you provide on this form will be used by Buttercups Training for administrative and statistical
purposes. By submitting your personal data you are giving your consent for it to be used for these
purposes. It will be used in accordance with the relevant legislation, including the Data Protection Act
1998. If you have any questions about the use of the data collected here or other personal information,
please contact Buttercups Training on 0115 937 4936.
By completing this Learner Agreement and returning it to Buttercups with the homework assessment
questions from Module 1 you are consenting to us storing your data electronically.
DECLARATION
I can confirm that I have read through, understood and completed the Learner Agreement. I also give
my consent to the storage of personal information about me and my course progress. I understand that
this information may remain available and in storage after I have finished my course of study.
Learner
Print Name: Signature: Date:
................................................. ................................................. ...........................
Supervising Pharmacist
................................................. ................................................. ...........................
Job Title: GPhC Registration Number:
................................................. .................................................
Buttercups Training Ltd. Representative
................................................. ................................................. ...........................

Buttercups Training
Introduction
Information for your Pharmacist
Information, Support and Guidance for Learner
Please remember we are here to help! They can contact us by phone or e-mail and can post questions on
the course website after they have logged in. If they have any special learning needs, or need additional
support for any reason, please tell us. We can help them to get the most from their course.
Contact Details
Tel: 0115 9374936

E-mail:
training@buttercups.co.uk
Fax: 0115 9371675
www.buttercups.co.uk
Buttercups Training Ltd

1-2 The Courtyard
Main Street
Keyworth
Nottingham
NG12 5AW
As the workplace supervising pharmacist your role is a crucial level of support and is key to the success of
your student. You should be impartial at all times when acting as a mentor and you should encourage
students to adhere to national standards and resist any temptation to impose your own. We will provide
you with access to the mentor website once you have completed and returned the Learner Agreement
above. It will provide more detailed information on the following topics:
Support
Activities you are likely to be involved with include:
Agreeing the nature of mentoring in the workplace

Identifying others within the workplace who can help should you not be there
Creating the right environment
Helping them to put their study plans into practice
Giving information to the students on their work roles and expectations
Reviewing the potential for added technology based support - provision of computer, access to
Internet etc
Identifying resources and facilities that meet the training needs
Giving encouragement and praise if progressing well, or support if they are finding things difficult

Buttercups Training
Introduction
Study Time
Please help to facilitate study time; the student will need to spend at least 60 hours study time over a
suggested 6 month period - could some of it be in work time?
Assessment
The course modules provide the underpinning knowledge for the qualification.
Most students will complete modules 1-12; however, those involved in the manufacture of medicines
within hospitals and manufacturing units will need to complete additional modules (and possibly omit one
or more of the first 12 modules) to ensure the course meets their needs . If they are involved in the
manufacture of medicines they will be advised which modules to complete upon enrolment.
The objectives for each module can be found in the course matrix which follows this introduction and are
repeated on the first page of each module. Any reference sources needed are also given at the start of the
module.
They should record the title of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that are relevant to each
module either in the space provided on page 1, or within their workbook. SOPs are introduced in Module 1
and whilst studying this course they must ensure that they locate and read the ones relevant to their role.
The Workbook Tasks
After each module there is a set of activities to complete which can be found at the back of the shrink-
wrapped course pack, in the workbook section. These vary from module to module and are designed to
allow learners to demonstrate their understanding of the module and how to apply the knowledge they
have acquired to their working practice. They cannot complete the course if they do not submit the
completed learner agreement and all relevant workbook declarations.
The a nswers written in their workbook a nd a ll da tes a nd signa tures must be in ink.
The completed tasks do not need to be sent to Buttercups for assessment at the end of each module but
they must be completed and kept in a safe place as they may need to be submitted for verification at any
time, even after the course is complete. Note that for learners undertaking this as part of an
apprenticeship programme (BTEC) all tasks must be submitted to Buttercups for assessment at the end of
the course.
At the end of each module's tasks you, or an appointed pharmacy technician, will need to review the
students answers. Once this is done, you need to sign the declaration for that module to confirm you
have reviewed the work and are satisfied that your student is competently putting the knowledge
acquired into practice.

Buttercups Training
Introduction
The Workbook Multiple-Choice Assessment Questions
These can be completed either online or on paper but it makes sense to complete these assessments
online if possible; the learner will be given their results instantly and their record will be updated
immediately.
Pass Marks
The pass mark for each module is 70% except for calculations where they must achieve 100%.
If a learner fails to meet the pass mark on the third attempt they may be withdrawn from the course prior
to discussion with yourself or your employer.
Online submission
When they complete the assessment online they will be given three attempts to pass the test.
However, if they do not reach the pass mark on the first attempt there will be a delay of between 1
and 7 days (depending on the score) before they are able to resit. This is to allow them further time
to study and develop their knowledge on the subject, and a chance to discuss it with you.
If the learner does not pass on their second attempt they will be permanently locked out before
their third attempt. At this stage they must contact Buttercups so that we have an oppor tunity to
discuss their learning with you, before taking the test for the third and final time.
Postal submission
Learners need to write their name and pharmacy address neatly on each sheet and photocopy work before
sending the originals to Buttercups for marking.
Homework is marked on receipt and returned by second class mail within 48 hours. If they have not
received their marked work within a week please contact us.
The a nswers to the multiple-choice questions must be written in ink a nd a ma ximum of two
modules should be submitted for ma rking a t a ny time.
If learner does not pass a module the questions answered incorrectly will be identified and they will be
given the opportunity to submit them again.
If they do not pass on resubmission we will discuss their progress with you to ensure you have
sufficient understanding and support, before they are given a final attempt to pass.
Course Duration
The course will typically take six months to complete; this is based on the assumption that at least two
modules will be completed each month. Please check that your learner keeps on track.
A sample learning log is available on the course website (see below*) which can be used to set target
dates and record the learners progress. Alternatively, the course matrix which follows has a blank
column which can be used to record target and completion dates if preferred.
*Candidates completing this course as part of a funded programme e.g. as part of an apprenticeship,
must complete the learning logs issued by the Funding Team at Buttercups.
Buttercups Training
Introduction
Security
If a students work is lost in the post, at their home or in the workplace - it is devastating. Remind them
to keep copies, not to leave work in a car, and to store assessed work securely.
Authenticity
If you have more than one student studying this course in your pharmacy by all means encourage them to
work through the course modules together; this can make studying more productive. However, when it
comes to the tests and workbook please ensure that they are completed individually so that we can assess
individual competence.
The students may also come to you because they are struggling with a question or task. By all means
discuss the topic with them and use examples but do not give answers to specific questions set for
assessment.
Be aware that both you and your student can contact Buttercups for support during the course (see the
student information or mentor website for contact details).

Buttercups Training
Introduction
Dispensing Assistant Course Contents Matrix
Target &
Module Objectives
Achievement Dates
Module 1 By the end of this module a student will be able

to:
Working in the Identify key members of the Pharmacy Team
Pharmacy Team Discuss the importance of effective
communication and good working
relationships on teamwork
Describe the structure of the Health Service
Training Solution Outline the role of other organisations in
relation to pharmacy
Training Module State what a standard operating procedure is
Training Workbook and know the importance of adhering to
standard operating procedures at all times
Name three reference sources used
frequently by the Pharmacy Team

to:
Communicating with
Give examples of internal and external
Pharmacy Customers
customers
Explain the difference between verbal and
Training Solution non-verbal communication
Give an example of one physical barrier and
Training Module one psychological barrier to communication
Training Workbook Identify patients with special communication
needs
Briefly explain the way the Data Protection
Act 1998 affects the information you can
provide to customers
List some of the services that pharmacies
offer
Handle complaints according to their
organisation's procedures

Buttercups Training
Introduction
Target &
Module Objective
Achievement Dates

to:
Law, Regulations and Name the laws that affect pharmacy and
Health and Safety in understand their impact on practice
Pharmacy Name and understand the health and safety
laws that relate to pharmacy
Training Solution
Training Module
Training Workbook

to:
Receiving a
Prescription Recognise private and NHS prescription
forms
Training Solution Check that a prescription meets the legal
requirements
Training Module
Training Workbook Confirm that a prescription contains
sufficient information for dispensing
Understand Latin abbreviations used on
prescriptions
Explain what to do if they suspect a
prescription is fraudulent
Understand the procedures and records
which must be kept for emergency
supplies of prescription-only medicines

to:
The Drug Tariff
Confirm whether a medicine, food or
cosmetic can be prescribed under the
Training Solution National Health Service (NHS)
Correctly endorse prescriptions
Training Module
Training Workbook Locate and use the Dental and Nurse
Practitioner Formularies in the Drug Tariff
Calculate the charges payable for
prescriptions

Buttercups Training
Introduction
Target &
Module Objective
Achievement Dates
Module 6 By the end of this module a student will:
Controlled Drugs Have an understanding of the Misuse of

Drugs Act 1976 and the Misuse of Drugs
Regulations 2001, as amended
Training Solution
Be able to check that prescriptions for
Training Module Controlled Drugs meet all the legal
Training Workbook requirements
Know the records which must be kept in
relation to the receipt and supply of
Controlled Drugs
Know the storage requirements for
Controlled Drugs
Have an understanding of the rules
relating to the destruction of Controlled
Drugs
Be aware of the use of Controlled Drugs in
the treatment of addiction

to:
Calculations
Convert quantities between units of mass and
Training Solution between units of volume
Calculate the percentage strength of a
Training Module
Training Workbook product
Work out the quantity to supply based on the
dose and duration of treatment
Calculate a dose based on a patient's weight
Calculate the quantity of ingredients needed
for an extemporaneous preparation from the
formula

Buttercups Training
Introduction
Target &
Module Objective
Achievement Dates

to:
Assembling a
Prescription Understand the equipment and facilities a
dispensary should have and know their
importance
Training Solution
Understand some of the risks associated
Training Module with dispensing and how to minimise those
Training Workbook risks
Have a working knowledge of the different
stages of the assembly process
Know the details which need to be on the
label of a dispensed medicine
Be able to perform an in-process self-check
of dispensed items
Module 9 By the end of this module a student will:
Giving Out a Know their role/responsibilities in relation

Prescription and to supplying prescribed items and
Patient Counselling
counselling patients
Know the importance of maintaining patient
Training Solution confidentiality when counselling a patient
Understand the importance of confirming a
Training Module patient's name and address at the point of
Training Workbook supply
Have an awareness of the key points
discussed when counselling a patient
Understand that in addition to telling
patients information about their
prescription it may be necessary to
demonstrate how to use an item, provide
written information, or refer the patient to
an electronic source of information
Know when and how to refer to their
pharmacist or a pharmacy technician when
counselling patients

Buttercups Training
Introduction
Target &
Module Objective
Achievement Dates

to:
Ordering, Receiving,
List the things that need to be considered
Storing and Issuing
Stock before an order is placed
Name the common sources of
pharmaceutical stock
Identify the checks that should take place
Training Solution before an order is placed and upon receipt
Training Module Give examples of items requiring special
Training Workbook storage conditions
List the factors that can affect the stability
of medicines
Describe how stock should be stored
Outline the process of issuing stock
State the four categories assigned to
recalled products

to:
Medicines for
State the different classifications of
Veterinary Use
veterinary medicines
Confirm whether a prescription for a
Training Solution veterinary medicine meets all the legal
requirements
Training Module Know the records to make when
Training Workbook
supplying a veterinary medicine
Have an understanding of the
"prescribing cascade" system used by
veterinary surgeons
State the identification number of the
form used to report suspected adverse
reactions to veterinary medicines

Buttercups Training
Introduction
Target &
Module Objective
Achievement Dates
Module 12 By the end of this module a student will be

able to
Dispensing Errors
Give examples of common errors
Be able to classify errors
Training Solution State the possible consequences of an
error
Training Module Identify factors that contribute to and can
Training Workbook cause errors
Suggest ways to prevent errors
State their organisation's procedure for
reporting near misses and errors
State their role and responsibilities in
managing an error


DAC Introduction To The Course

Hochgeladen von

Dokumentinformationen

Originaltitel

Copyright

Verfügbare Formate

Dieses Dokument teilen

Dokument teilen oder einbetten

Freigabeoptionen

Stufen Sie dieses Dokument als nützlich ein?

Sind diese Inhalte unangemessen?

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

DAC Introduction To The Course

Hochgeladen von

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

Buttercups Training

Dispensing Assistant Course

Welcome to the Buttercups Dispensing Assistant Course!

How to use these materials

Tick: This symbol is used to highlight a checklist or contents page

Scales: This symbol is used to highlight legal or professional matters

Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 2

The Workbook Tasks

The Workbook Multiple-Choice Assessment Questions

Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 3

Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 4

Study Techniques, Hints and Tips

1. Manage your time

2. Create a study space

3. Study for short periods and take breaks

Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 5

4. Plan your study

6. Review your learning

7. Ask for help

Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 6

8. Remember to have fun

Support from Buttercups Training

Tel: 0115 9374936

Buttercups Training Ltd

Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 7

Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 8

Rules and Regulations

The Dispensing Assistant qualification

You may be withdrawn from the course

What could happen if you fail the course?

You will be reinstated at the point you were withdrawn

Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 9

What happens if you change employer?

What other changes of circumstances should be notified to Buttercups Training Ltd?

You must let us know if any of the following occur:

Your supervising pharmacist leaves and a new one arrives

What are extenuating circumstances?

How do I present details of my extenuating circumstances?

Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 10

When do I present details of extenuating circumstances?

What will happen to my completed form?

Your original assessment can be nullified

Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 11

Supervising Pharmacists Responsibilities:

I will provide you with study time where possible.

Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 12

Data protection consent:

Print Name: Signature: Date:

................................................. ................................................. ...........................

Print Name: Signature: Date:

................................................. ................................................. ...........................

Job Title: GPhC Registration Number:

Buttercups Training Ltd. Representative

Print Name: Signature: Date:

................................................. ................................................. ...........................

Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 13

Information for your Pharmacist

Information, Support and Guidance for Learner

Tel: 0115 9374936

Buttercups Training Ltd

Activities you are likely to be involved with include:

Agreeing the nature of mentoring in the workplace

Introduction Version 4: August 2014 Page 14