Verbal ability is needed to interpret and understand written prescriptions, formularies, and reference texts, as well as for presenting data information on pharmaceuticals to physicians, staff, and public. Must understand the composition and properties of drugs, their manufacture and uses, their pharmacologic actions and the procedures for testing their purity and strength.
Numerical ability is needed in measuring, weighing, and packaging drugs; in computing charges for preparations.
Form perception is needed to interpret prescription format, to note physical or chemical changes in ingredients for prescriptions, and to interpret formularies.
Clerical perception is needed to prevent errors in reading formulas, proofreading prescriptions, and report and record keeping.
A preference for scientific and technical activities is necessary to master techniques of prescription compounding, and in reading scientific and technical journals to keep abreast of new findings in the field.
A preference for the use of processes and techniques, as in filling prescriptions, is required.
Ability to adapt to precise and exacting activities in filling prescriptions where standards are well defined.
Ability to adapt to activities requiring frequent changes, as in compounding prescriptions.
Must have the ability to work with a variety of patients of all populations (e.g. developmentally appropriate care, cultural diversity, patients with pain, victims of abuse or neglect, and diagnosis or procedure specific such as patient with congestive heart failure or cesarean delivery).
