PTCB Sees Success in Advanced Technician Certification Program

In a sign of the profession’s evolution, more than 300 pharmacy technicians have now been certified as Compounded Sterile Preparation Technicians (CSPTs), according to the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).

Launched in December 2017, the CSPT Certification Program is the PTCB’s first advanced certification program. To apply for the certification, candidates must have at least 1 year of work experience in sterile compounding and complete a PTCB-approved sterile compounding training program though technicians who have more than 3 years of experience in sterile compounding are exempt from the latter requirement. Candidates must also achieve a passing score on the CSPT exam— a 2-hour, 75-question multiple choice test covering hazardous and non-hazardous compounded sterile products—and submit a formal recommendation from qualified supervisor.

After earning the credential, CSPTs must renew their certification every year by completing 5 hours of Continuing Education in sterile compounding and submitting an annual competency attestation from a qualified supervisor.

“Granting more than 300 CSPT certifications is an exciting milestone in the first year of PTCB’s new CSPT advanced certification program,” said PTCB Executive Director and CEO William Schimmel, in a statement. “By meeting the rigorous standards mandated by PTCB’s certification and recertification processes, certified pharmacy technicians who obtain the CSPT credential stand out as highly qualified to meet today’s expectations in sterile compounding safety.”

In an interview with Pharmacy Times, CSPT exam development committee chair Allen Horne, RPh, added that pursuing advanced certification can help technicians not only to advance their careers, but also to better contribute to patient health.

"A technician with an advanced certification would stand above other techs who don’t have this distinction when interviewing for positions requiring intravenous (IV) sterile compounding," Horne explained. "This technician would also enhance patient safety by their level of knowledge and expertise in IV compounding."

Reference

Humphrey L. PTCB Grants 300 Compounded Sterile Preparation Technician (CSPT) Certifications. Pharmacy Technician Certification Board website. ptcb.org/about-ptcb/news-room/news-landing/2018/06/28/ptcb-grants-300-compounded-sterile-preparation-technician-(cspt-)-certifications#.W0i5E9VKhhE. Published June 28, 2018. Accessed July 13, 2018.