Key Points:

• Acute Care Nursing Assistants provide basic patient care; Pharmacy Technicians assist pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications.
• Acute Care Nursing Assistants typically earn less than Pharmacy Technicians.
• Both fields are expected to see growth, with Pharmacy Technician jobs projected to grow faster than Acute Care Nursing Assistant roles.
• Acute Care Nursing Assistants usually require a state-approved training program, while Pharmacy Technicians may need a certificate program or on-the-job training.
• Acute Care Nursing Assistant training is generally shorter and less expensive than Pharmacy Technician training.

Are you interested in a career in the healthcare industry but unsure which path to take? Two popular options to consider are becoming an Acute Care Nursing Assistant or a Pharmacy Technician. While both roles play a vital role in patient care, there are some key differences to consider.

What is an Acute Care Nursing Assistant?

An Acute Care Nursing Assistant, also known as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), is a healthcare professional who provides direct patient care in acute care settings such as hospitals and clinics. They work under the supervision of registered nurses and provide essential support to patients and their families. Some of the duties of an Acute Care Nursing Assistant include:

• Assisting with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating
• Taking vital signs and recording patient information
• Assisting with patient mobility and transfers
• Providing emotional support to patients and their families
• Assisting with medical procedures under the supervision of a nurse
• Maintaining a clean and safe patient environment

What is a Pharmacy Technician?

A Pharmacy Technician is a healthcare professional who works alongside pharmacists to prepare and dispense medications to patients. They work in various settings, including hospitals, retail pharmacies, and long-term care facilities. Some of the duties of a Pharmacy Technician include:

• Receiving and verifying prescription orders
• Measuring, mixing, and packaging medications
• Labeling and organizing medication stock
• Assisting with inventory management
• Providing customer service to patients and healthcare providers
• Operating and maintaining pharmacy equipment
• Compounding medications under the supervision of a pharmacist

Difference between an Acute Care Nursing Assistant and Pharmacy Technician

While both Acute Care Nursing Assistants and Pharmacy Technicians are vital members of the healthcare team, there are several key differences between the two roles:

• Job Responsibilities: Acute Care Nursing Assistants primarily provide direct patient care, assisting with activities of daily living and ensuring patient comfort. Pharmacy Technicians, on the other hand, focus on medication-related tasks such as preparing and dispensing medications.
• Supervision: Acute Care Nursing Assistants work under the direct supervision of registered nurses, while Pharmacy Technicians work under the supervision of pharmacists.
• Work Environment: Acute Care Nursing Assistants typically work in hospitals or clinics, providing care to patients at the bedside. Pharmacy Technicians can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, retail pharmacies, and long-term care facilities.
• Patient Interaction: Acute Care Nursing Assistants have frequent direct contact with patients and their families, providing emotional support and assistance with daily activities. Pharmacy Technicians primarily interact with patients when dispensing medications or providing medication-related advice.
• Skills Required: Acute Care Nursing Assistants need strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as physical stamina to assist with tasks such as lifting and transferring patients. Pharmacy Technicians need attention to detail, strong math skills, and the ability to work accurately and efficiently.
• Career Path: Acute Care Nursing Assistants can pursue further education and training to become licensed practical nurses (LPNs) or registered nurses (RNs). Pharmacy Technicians can advance their careers by becoming certified pharmacy technicians or pursuing additional education to become pharmacists.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs Pharmacy Technician: Job Description

• Acute Care Nursing Assistant: Acute Care Nursing Assistants provide direct patient care in acute care settings. They assist with activities of daily living, monitor patient vital signs, and provide emotional support to patients and their families. Acute Care Nursing Assistants work closely with registered nurses and other healthcare professionals to ensure the comfort and well-being of patients.
• Pharmacy Technician: Pharmacy Technicians work alongside pharmacists to prepare and dispense medications to patients. They receive and verify prescription orders, measure and package medications, and assist with inventory management. Pharmacy Technicians play a critical role in ensuring that patients receive the correct medications in a timely manner.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs Pharmacy Technician: Education and Training

• Acute Care Nursing Assistant: To become an Acute Care Nursing Assistant, individuals must complete a state-approved nursing assistant training program. These programs are typically offered by community colleges, vocational schools, and healthcare facilities. The length of the program varies but is typically around 6-12 weeks. After completing the training program, individuals must pass a state competency exam to become certified as a nursing assistant.
• Pharmacy Technician: The education and training requirements for Pharmacy Technicians vary by state. Some states require completion of a formal training program, while others only require a high school diploma or equivalent. Many community colleges and vocational schools offer pharmacy technician training programs, which can range from a few months to a year. Additionally, some states require Pharmacy Technicians to pass a certification exam.

Acute Care Nursing Assistant vs Pharmacy Technician: Career Outlook and Salary

• Career Outlook: The demand for Acute Care Nursing Assistants is expected to grow in the coming years due to an aging population and increased access to healthcare services. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of nursing assistants is projected to grow 8 percent from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for Pharmacy Technicians is also expected to increase, driven by population growth and the need for medication management. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 4 percent growth in employment for pharmacy technicians from 2019 to 2029.
• Salary: The salary for Acute Care Nursing Assistants and Pharmacy Technicians can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and employer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for nursing assistants was $30,830 in May 2020. The median annual wage for pharmacy technicians was $34,020 in May 2020.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a career as an Acute Care Nursing Assistant or a Pharmacy Technician can be a difficult decision. Both roles offer rewarding opportunities to make a difference in the lives of patients. Consider your interests, skills, and long-term career goals when making your decision. If you enjoy direct patient care and providing emotional support, a career as an Acute Care Nursing Assistant may be the right fit for you. If you have a strong attention to detail and enjoy working with medications, a career as a Pharmacy Technician may be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice is yours, and either path can lead to a fulfilling and successful career in the healthcare industry.

Dreambound extends its programs to various locations. Visit the suggested blogs to delve deeply into the intricate details of the two vocations, learning about their respective requirements and gaining valuable insights on how to kickstart your involvement:

• Pharmacy Technician in Nebraska