PTCB Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam Practice Test

Introduction

• Instructor: Amanda, a pharmacist.
• Covers 90 questions with explained answers.
• Useful for those preparing for the PTCB exam.

Key Topics

Drug Classifications

1. Citalopram

   • Classification: SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors).
   • Examples: Celexa, Zoloft, Prozac, Lexapro.
   • Used as antidepressants.

2. Antihistamines

   • Used for allergy symptoms.
   • Examples: Zyrtec, Claritin, Benadryl.

3. Beta Blockers

   • For high blood pressure and irregular heartbeat.
   • Examples: Tenormin, Lopressor.

4. ACE Inhibitors

   • For high blood pressure and heart failure.
   • Examples: Prinivil, Vasotec.

Calculations & Measurements

1. Conversion between ounces and milliliters

   • 1 ounce = 30 milliliters
   • 5 ounces = 150 milliliters

2. Drug Dosing

   • Example: 500 mg doses from a 2 g vial of ampicillin = 4 doses.

3. Unit Conversions

   • Grains (gr) to milligrams (mg)
   • 1 grain = 64.8 mg
   • Example: 325 mg = 5 grains.

DEA Regulations and Schedules

1. Schedule Classifications

   • Schedule 2: High potential for abuse, no refills (e.g., Norco).
   • Schedule 3-5: Up to 5 refills in 6 months.

2. DEA Number Validation

   • Format involves two letters and seven numbers.
   • Validation through checksum calculation.

Drug Forms and Administration

1. Solution vs. Suspension

   • Solutions: Dissolved drugs in liquid.
   • Suspensions: Small particles floating in liquid, require shaking.

2. Routes of Administration

   • Oral, intravenous (IV), subcutaneous (SQ), etc.
   • Buccal: Dissolve in cheek.
   • Otic: Ear drops.

Sterile Compounding

1. Laminar Flow Hood

   • Provides clean air for IV preparation.
   • Important to work 6 inches inside hood.

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

   • Includes gloves, masks, gowns.
   • Essential for aseptic technique.

Pharmacy Law and Ethics

1. OBRA

   • Requires patient counseling offers.
   • Focuses on Medicaid patients.

2. HIPAA

   • Protects patient confidentiality.

3. FDA and Drug Regulation

   • FD&C Act: Regulates drug and device safety.
   • CSA: Controls production of substances with abuse potential.

Drug Recall and Storage

1. Drug Recall Classes

   • Class 1: Serious health risks.
   • Class 3: Unlikely to cause health concerns.

2. Storage Temperatures

   • Refrigeration: 36-46°F (2-8°C).
   • Controlled Room Temperature: 68-77°F (20-25°C).

Miscellaneous

1. Narrow Therapeutic Index (NTI)

   • Importance of dose accuracy for drugs like Warfarin.

2. Pharmacy Calculations

   • Retail price calculations using AWP, markup, and dispensing fee.

Closing

• Practice is essential for mastering the PTCB exam content.
• Encouragement to like, subscribe, and share resources.