PTCB Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam Practice Test

Introduction

• Presenter: Amanda, a pharmacist
• Content: 90 practice questions for the PTCB exam with explained answers
• Encourages liking and subscribing to the channel

Key Topics Covered

Drug Classifications

• Citalopram: Classified as SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
• Beta Blockers: For high blood pressure (e.g., atenolol)
• ACE Inhibitors: For high blood pressure and heart failure (e.g., lisinopril)
• Antihistamines: For allergy symptoms (e.g., cetirizine)

Dosage and Conversion Calculations

• 1 ounce = 30 milliliters
• Calculating doses and conversions using fractions
• Example: 500 mg doses from a 2g vial

Drug Names and NDC

• Brand Name: Given by manufacturer (e.g., Tylenol)
• Generic Name: Active chemical ingredient (e.g., acetaminophen for Tylenol)
• NDC: National Drug Code structure

Controlled Substances

• DEA Schedules: Schedule 2 (e.g., Norco) cannot have refills

Drug Interactions and Allergies

• Patients with macrolide allergies should avoid azithromycin

Drug Administration and Measurements

• Syringe size for accurate measurements
• Conversion of grams to milligrams in solutions

Prescription Processing

• Interpretation of SIG codes (e.g., 1 QID PRN)
• Repackaging unit dose requirements

Drug Storage and Expiry

• Temperature ranges for storage:
  • Controlled room: 20-25°C
  • Refrigeration: 2-8°C

Pharmacology Concepts

• Omeprazole: Blocks stomach acid pumps (Proton Pump Inhibitor)
• Laminar Flow Hood: Cleaned side to side, kept on 24/7

Pharmaceutical Calculations

• Drug recall classifications
• Flow rate calculations for IV
• Formulas for calculating retail price with markup
• Determining therapeutic equivalence using the Orange Book

Drug Regulations and Ethics

• FDA and DEA roles
• Controlled Substance Act for drug scheduling
• Poison Prevention Packaging Act for child-resistant packaging

Miscellaneous Topics

• Types of syringes and needles
• Importance of aseptic technique in preparing IVs
• Understanding insurance terminology (e.g., copay, premium)
• Recertification CE requirements for pharmacy technicians

Conclusion

• Encourages sharing the video with others
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These notes cover the essential topics and examples provided in the practice test. They offer a comprehensive review of pharmacy technician knowledge areas necessary for the PTCB exam.