Post Graduate
Year Two
(PGY2)
Pharmacy
Informatics
2015-2016
Residency
Manual
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Table of Contents
Purpose and Philosophy................................................................................................................................ 3
Organizational Structure ............................................................................................................................... 4
Program Outcomes, Goals, and Objectives .................................................................................................. 5
Structure of Residency Experiences.............................................................................................................. 7
Benefits ......................................................................................................................................................... 8
Health, Disability, and Professional Benefits ............................................................................................ 8
Educational Benefits ................................................................................................................................. 8
Other Benefits ........................................................................................................................................... 8
Paid Time Off (PTO)................................................................................................................................... 8
Expectations of the Resident ...................................................................................................................... 10
Licensure Verification ............................................................................................................................. 10
Professionalism ....................................................................................................................................... 10
Duty Hours .............................................................................................................................................. 10
Overtime/ Moonlighting ......................................................................................................................... 11
Residency Activities and Requirements ...................................................................................................... 12
Evaluation Process and Requirements........................................................................................................ 18
Evaluations .............................................................................................................................................. 18
Documentation ....................................................................................................................................... 19
Requirements for Receiving a Certificate ................................................................................................... 21
Appendices.................................................................................................................................................. 24
Appendix A: Orientation Checklist .......................................................................................................... 25
Appendix B: Evaluation Schedule 2015-2016 ......................................................................................... 28
Appendix C: Tracking Form ..................................................................................................................... 29
Appendix D: Requirement Timeline ........................................................................................................ 31
Appendix E: Unique Learning Experiences ............................................................................................. 32
Staffing Learning Experience............................................................................................................... 35
Research plan ............................................................................................................................................. 40
Therapeutic Exchange Learning Experience .......................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Appendix G: PTO Request Procedures .................................................................................................... 42
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Purpose and Philosophy
Purpose
The purpose of a PGY2 pharmacy informatics residency is to prepare the
pharmacist for practice in a pharmacy informatics position. Residency
training is designed to provide the resident experience in applying
informatics and technology to enhance care of the patient and support
healthcare professionals. This is accomplished by staffing responsibilities,
appropriate clinical rotations and working with a broad range of medication
systems, health care professionals, and vendors. Residency training also
offers other advantages:
• A competitive advantage in the job market – More and more employers
recognize the value of residency training. A pharmacist who has completed a
residency will have unique advantages over applicants who have not.
• Networking opportunities – Many opportunities arise for residents to
establish or expand their network of professional acquaintances and contacts
including preceptors and other residents, especially in the informatics
specialty area.
• Career planning – During the course of training, most residents gain a
clearer understanding of the specific informatics setting which best suits him
or her. Residency preceptors are committed to providing personal attention
to assist each resident in further defining professional goals.
• Professional vision – Many programs also offer the opportunity to see how
pharmacy is practiced in different parts of the country, by arranging for
residents to visit other residency programs or by allowing residents to
complete a portion of the residency at another site (for example, vendor
rotation opportunity or didactic teaching or precepting opportunities if
available).
Philosophy
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The ASHP accreditation standard provides criteria that every program must
meet in order to receive and maintain accreditation. This program follows
the ASHP - approved PGY2 Informatics Residency Outcomes, Goals, and
Objectives. The requirement for this residency program is consistent with
ASHP to solely consider candidates who have successfully completed a PGY1
residency. While this program follows ASHP standards, one of its strenths is
the flexibility to tailor the learning experience to meet the informatics needs
and interests of each individual resident. The mission of our program
includes developing a core skill set in pharmacy informatics and fully
understanding the intersection of technology, patient care and professional
practice. The program also offers a unique opportunity to work closely with
the primary vendor of the institution to learn about the vendor perspective.
Organizational Structure
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Program Outcomes, Goals, and Objectives
The residency program will provide each resident with specific learning experiences designed to enable
the resident to expand the scope of his/her practice skills.
Required Goals
R1.1
R1.2
R1.3
R2.1
R2.2
R3.1
R3.2
R3.3
R3.4
R4.1
R4.2
R4.3
R4.4
R4.5
R4.6
Demonstrate understanding of basic pharmacy informatics principles, standards and
best practices.
Evaluate opportunities for improving patient outcomes by improving the safety and
quality of the medication- use system through the application of informatics principles,
standards, and best practices.
Evaluate opportunities for improving operational efficiencies in order to better serve
patient and health professional needs through the application of informatics principles,
standards, and best practices.
Evaluate the validity of information and knowledge in the organization’s technology
and automation systems.
Assure that all patient-specific, medication-specific, and evidence-based
pharmacotherapy information required to support effective medication-related
decisions is readily available in a useful format to members of interdisciplinary, patientcentered teams.
Assure the accurate and efficient flow of data between the organization’s technology
and automation systems.
Support efforts to assure the interoperability of technology and automation systems
that interface with those of outside organizations.
Guard the confidentiality and security of health data stored in the health care
organization’s database.
Demonstrate additional competencies that contribute to working successfully in the
health care environment.
Demonstrate additional competencies that contribute to working successfully in the
health care environment (additional)
Demonstrate a working knowledge of currently available automated technology for
order processing.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of currently available automated devices for the
safe and efficient distribution and dispensing of medications.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of currently available technology or automation for
the safe and efficient administration of medications.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of currently available automated technology for
documenting medication administration.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of currently available electronic surveillance
systems for effects monitoring.
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R4.7
R4.8
R4.9
R5.1
R5.2
R5.3
R5.4
R6.1
R6.2
R6.3
R6.4
E1.1
E2.1
E3.1
E3.2
Demonstrate a working knowledge of currently available pharmacy inventory
management systems.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of emerging technology and automation systems
that assist with the medication-use system.
Contribute to resolution of identified operational problems.
Contribute to planning for acquisition and implementation of significant technology or
automation initiatives involving the pharmacy department.
Participate in the implementation of a technology or automation system.
Participate in contingency planning.
Report the findings of a technology or automation system project.
Demonstrate the personal skills and abilities of a pharmacy informatics leader.
Represent the pharmacy informatics perspective in interactions with the information
technology staff, other health care staff, and/ or technology and automation vendors.
Demonstrate the technical skills essential to the role of a pharmacy informaticist.
Represent pharmacy informatics concerns in strategic planning for the implementation,
use, and maintenance of technology and automation systems.
Design, execute, and report results of investigations of pharmacy informatics-related
issues.
Serve as an expert resource for the management of a specific technology or
automation system.
Understand faculty roles and responsibilities. (optional)
Exercise teaching skills essential to pharmacy faculty. (optional)
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Structure of Residency Experiences
Orientation (4 weeks)
Core Rotations (4 weeks)
Transitional
1. Medical Center
Orientation
1. Clinical Pharmacy Systems
Management (CPOE,
Pharmacy System,
Documentation System,
Automated Dispensing
Devices)
1. ASHP Midyear
2. Residency/RLS
3. Computer Training
Elective Rotations
1. Clinical Decision Supt II
2.
EHR /Vendor Relations
3.
Medication Safety II
4.
Evidence Based
Medicine/Order Sets
5.
System Alerts
6.
Outpatient Pharmacy
Automation & e-Prescribing
7.
Web based pharmacy
application
6. Technical Concepts
8.
Med Carousel Technology
7. Clinical Systems
9.
Pharmacy Interventions
4. Hospital Practice
/Central Pharmacy
& Satellites
2. Clinical Decision Support
5. Staffing Orientation
4. Data Management & Smart
Pumps
3. Clinical Rotation
2. Residency Project
5. Medication Safety
Longitudinal
Topic &/or Case Presentation (2)
Assistance with PGY1 MUE projects
Newsletter Fast Fact (1)
Hospital Pharmacy Practice (staffing)
Residency Project (1)
Therapeutic Exchange (1 CE) or equivalent
Residency Project Presentation
Automation Project
Elective Clinical Rotations:
Solid Organ Transplant
Bone Marrow Transplant
Infectious Disease
General Pediatrics
ICU Pediatrics
NICU Pediatrics
BMT/Onc Pediatrics
Nutrition
Critical Care
Medicine
Trauma
Burn
Surgical
Geriatrics
Cardiology
*At the request of resident to gain experience in a particular clinical area. No more than one 4 week rotation is
recommended, however, exceptions may be made. Ideally, informatics will be incorporated into the clinical rotation when
possible.
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Benefits
Please refer to the Human Resources Page on the Vanderbilt University Website for more information:
http://hr.vanderbilt.edu/benefits/benefitspackage.php
Health, Disability, and Professional Benefits
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Health care plan options, including an HMO plan
Paid time off (PTO) including 7 observed Holidays
Short Term Disability
Life insurance
Professional liability insurance supplied by the Medical Center
Immunizations and all other health related costs required by the Medical Center
Employee Wellness Program
Educational Benefits
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Full access to the Biomedical Library
Financial support and professional leave for the ASHP Midyear Meeting and the annual
Southeastern Residency Conference.
Other Benefits
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Travel and relocation expenses directly related to moving to Nashville (moving company, truck
rental, fuel, hotel)—up to $1500
Payment of Tennessee Board of Pharmacy license fee in June—license fee and professional tax
NAPLEX transfer fees
Photocopying directly related to residency
Office space & computer work station
Employee Assistance Program
ACPE approved continuing education provided by the Department of Pharmaceutical Services
Discounts at local merchants
Paid Time Off (PTO)
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PTO (paid time off) will be granted on the first day of the residency program
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PTO is used for vacation, holidays, sick days, and interview days if needed
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Due to the rigorous, educational nature of the residency training program, it is expected that
residents minimize the use of PTO days (suggest that residents use a portion of the PTO
allotment throughout the year).
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If you are not working the holiday, you are encouraged to use a week of your PTO for the
holiday that you are off.
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Vacation may not be taken during ASHP Midyear Meeting or SERC meeting days, or scheduled
holidays/weekends in the staffing component of the residency. Vacation requested for June is
discouraged and will be reviewed on a case by case basis by the Residency Director.
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Residents may not be absent more than 5 days from any rotation experience (professional
leave/personal/vacation) unless approved by the Residency Director and rotation preceptor.
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July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Memorial
Day are observed holidays. Residents will be assigned to work 2 major and 1 minor holiday. If
the resident is scheduled on the pharmacy staffing schedule for a holiday, that shift prevails. The
department also recognizes the day after Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve in the department
staffing rotation and these are handled and scheduled per department policy. If the resident is
off for any holiday, then they must submit this time as PTO
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Refer to the PTO Request Procedure in the Appendix.
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Expectations of the Resident
The resident is expected to achieve the objectives of the Residency Program related to both
administrative and professional practice skills. The resident reports to and is supervised by the rotation
preceptor and the residency director. During staffing, the resident is under the supervision of the
pharmacist in charge.
Licensure Verification
Pharmacy licensure in Tennessee is a requirement for pharmacy practice residents at VUMC. The
residency program director will confirm that each resident has taken the NAPLEX and the Tennessee
pharmacy law exam, or will take the Tennessee law exam upon transfer of NAPLEX scores from another
state, or already had a valid Tennessee pharmacy license. Upon notification of successful completion of
the NABPLEX and/or law exam the resident will provide documentation of licensure to the RPD. The
resident will provide the department the licensure certificate for display during the resident’s year at
VUMC. Licensure must be obtained no later than August 15 of the residency year.
Professionalism
Hours of practice vary according to the requirements set forth by the preceptor and director. The
resident is expected to be present in body, mind, and spirit at all assigned activities of the service they
are currently a part of, including medical staff rounding, education classes, and administrative activities.
The resident may be assigned duties that require work overnight or that may continue during days away
from the hospital; however, these assignments will not be beyond the expectations of other pharmacy
professionals’ duties. An eight hour day is a minimum requirement for physical presence on site during
assigned work days.
Duty Hours
Resident work hours must comply with the current duty hour standards of the Accreditation Council for
Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Duty hours are defined as all clinical and academic activities
related to the residency program that is performed on-site. Duty hours must be limited to 80 hours per
week, averaged over a 4-week period. These duty hours include covering overtime shifts and
moonlighting. Residents must be provided with 1 day in 7 free from all educational and clinical
responsibilities averaged over a 4-week period. One day is defined as one continuous 24-hour period
free from all residency activities. Adequate time for rest and personal activities must be provided. This
should consist of a 10-hour time period provided between all daily duty periods. Duty hours will be
reported to the residency program director (RPD) on a monthly basis for review.
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Overtime/ Moonlighting
The work of the Department is the resident’s most important commitment; however, residents working
extra shift hours in a staffing role for pharmacist pay are permitted. To work overtime, the resident must
be trained in the area. The resident must notify the RPD of all overtime/moonlighting shifts for approval
prior to scheduling the shift. The extra hours worked must not interfere with residency related
activities.
Moonlighting outside of Vanderbilt is strongly discouraged. However, if the resident chooses to
moonlight outside of Vanderbilt, all activity must be disclosed via the VUMC conflict of interest
disclosure process. The extra hours worked must not interfere with residency related activities. ALL
work hours must not exceed the 80-hour limit set forth by ACGME. The resident must notify the RPD of
all overtime/moonlighting shifts for approval prior to scheduling the shift.
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Residency Activities and Requirements
Rotations
There are 11 rotations during the PGY2 residency year. Each rotation period is approximately 4 weeks in
duration. All residents must complete the following required rotations: orientation, pharmacy systems,
clinical systems, clinical rotation, CDS, data management, medication safety, technical concepts, and a
clinical rotation. Rotation requirements may vary based on preceptor. Criteria based assessments should
be reviewed at the outset of each rotation by resident and preceptor to assure completion of all
requirements by the end of the residency year.
Hospital Pharmacy Practice
The residents will practice in a guided hospital practice scheduled every fourth weekend, and selected
holidays. The resident will gain experience in the IV room, Central dispensing area, and the Narcotic
Room as well as learn the responsibilities of the pharmacist in charge as well assist with clinical consults
and dashboard monitoring. The second half of the year the resident will have exposure to the satellite
pharmacy operations.
Informatics On-Call
The On-Call person provides a resource to help with pharmacy informatics issues 24/7. The resident will
be on-call usually 4-6 days per month depending on the rotation roster and calendar month.
Out-of-State Conferences
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ASHP Midyear
o Registration begins in July/August; residents are responsible for meeting these
registration deadlines.
o Residents must also register for the UHC meeting and present a poster at the UHC
resident poster session.
o It is required that all residents attend a minimum of 10 hours of lectures/seminars.
Southeastern Residency Conference:
o End or April or early May in Athens, Georgia
o Registration begins in January/February and abstract submission deadline is in February;
residents are responsible for meeting registration deadlines.
o http://www.rx.uga.edu/main/home/ce/programs-and-seminars/serc.asp#dates
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Journal Club
The purpose of the Journal Club assignment is for the resident to present or assist the pharmacy student
or resident in creating an optimal journal club experience of a current informatics related study to
targeted members of the Health IT team, including, but not limited to, other residents, students, and
clinical preceptors. The Journal Club experience will be a discussion between the pharmacy
resident/student and the members of the audience, with full audience participation expected. Residents
are expected to lead Journal Club for the department once in their residency year. All residents are
required to attend.
Topic Presentation
The purpose of topic presentation is for the resident to present an interesting topic in which they
directly participated. They are to present members of the Health IT team or Pharmacy Portfolio,
including, but not limited to, other residents, students, and clinical preceptors. All residents are
required to attend. Presentation should be focused on informatics topics and include primary literature
in reference to the case.
Continuing Education Presentations
Two formal presentations by each resident will be conducted during the residency year:
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Therapeutic Exchange: This is a 60 minute CE presentation that includes some controversy
and/or is a hot topic in informatics or pharmacotherapy. Primary literature is to be used as a
guiding force to put this presentation together. Presentation objectives and title are to be
submitted one month prior to your assigned presentation date.
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Residency Project: This is a 10-15 minute presentation of the resident’s research project.
This includes several practice sessions and then a formal presentation with
feedback/evaluation from preceptors and residents during practice and attendees at SERC.
This will also be presented in conjunction with the other residents to be a complete 60
minute CE presentation for the department.
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Newsletter/Fast Facts
The purpose of the Fast Fact assignment is for the resident to provide information about a pharmacyrelated topic that could be of use and educational value to the Department of Pharmaceutical Services.
The Fact Fast should highlight a new topic and provide practical information to pharmacists and/or
pharmacy technicians. The Fast Fact will be published in the InPharmation newsletter, which is
published at the end of each month. Each resident will provide one Fast Facts during the year, typically
one in the fall and one in the spring.
Research Project
Each resident will conduct a research project over the course of the residency year. This project will
include idea development, literature review, study design, IRB submission, data collection, data analysis,
data interpretation, oral presentation and a written manuscript. The written manuscript is to include
identification of an appropriate journal for potential submission and the following of the instruction to
authors for that journal. The manuscript must be written and submitted in final form prior to completion
of residency. The manuscript must be reviewed by the project mentor(s) and approved by the residency
director. The resident will have a mentor identified for interactions and guidance during the year.
Recruitment
Residents will assist in the resident recruitment and candidate selection process at Midyear and during
on-site interview of candidates during the first part of the calendar year.
MUE
Each informatics resident will assist with a medication use evaluation during the residency year. These
are assigned the first month of the residency. Findings are to be summarized in a 10 minute power point
presentation with recommendations of the most appropriate course of action based on the findings to
the P&T Committee and/or appropriate committee.
Medical Center Education Programs
Noon conferences, DBMI lectures, and other education conferences are offered throughout VUMC.
These are posted in Vanderbilt publications and via email notifications. The resident is strongly
encouraged to attend these whenever possible.
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Hospital Pharmacy Practice
The resident will practice in a guided hospital practice scheduled for every fourth weekend and selected
holidays. The resident will gain experience in IV Room & Sterile Products, Central dispensing, narcotic
room, and responsibilities associated with Pharmacist in Charge.
(This is a guideline and will be dependent on staffing location assignment. The PGY2 resident will have a
similar staffing experience model as the PGY1 residents, however, depending on the PGY2 prior staffing
experience, goals and objectives may be adjusted as needed to ensure staffing competency of the PGY2
resident. It is an expectation that informatics resident will provide oversight to the PGY1 residents in
dispensing roles and clinical monitoring roles when PGY1 and PGY2 residents are staffing
simultaneously).
Expectations for Residents in First Quarter – Staffing Assignment
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Orient to the Central Pharmacy and learn the procedures of both the unit dose area and the
sterile products preparation areas.
Adjust to the scheduling assignments and focus on being present and ready to work in the
assigned area at the assigned time. Stay in the work area during your entire shift and be
available to focus on the work at hand. Observe appropriate break time such as 30 minutes for
lunch breaks. Learn to indicate any scheduling adjustments on the posted pharmacist schedule
such as swaps in assignments
Develop an understanding of the systems and processes and develop skills such as with CPOE
order processing (“VOP”).
Develop relationships with the Central Area team. Be careful to ask a more senior pharmacist
before making changes to work processes. Follow the established dress code and other
workplace policies. Be sensitive to the needs of the other staff in the area and do not routinely
ask to leave early. Make sure that work is caught up prior to leaving your assignment.
Begin to develop a broader view of the work place and rotate among the various stations
(AcuDose check or cart check, pharmacy labels on Zebra, extemp prep, packaging machine,
phones, tube station, IV Room, etc.) in order to maintain and effective work flow and efficiency
level.
Learn to collaborate with other staff members shift regarding work flow issues or whenever
time may become available to work on projects but remain available to return your focus to the
work at hand whenever workload increases.
Remain flexible and ask questions.
Once initial training is complete, primary assignment will be in the IV Room/Sterile Products or
the Unit Dose area – may flex depending on staffing requirements.
Resident will check in with the pharmacist and technician mentors at the end of each weekend
shift to see if there are suggestions for improvement. If mentors are not working on the same
weekend, resident will check in with their mentors at the next available opportunity to discuss
any questions.
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Expectations for Residents in Second Quarter – Staffing Assignment
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Demonstrate proficiency in all areas of the Central Pharmacy.
Demonstrate proficiency with systems and processes and manage the established levels of
efficiency.
Demonstrate a broad view of the work place and rotate among the various stations maintaining
effective workflow and efficiency.
Primary assignment will be to float between the IV Room and Unit Dose areas
Begin to observe the Pharmacist in Charge (PIC) role
Resident will check in with the pharmacist and technician mentors at the end of each weekend
shift to see if there are suggestions for improvement. If mentors are not working on the same
weekend, resident will check in with their mentors at the next available opportunity to discuss
any questions.
Expectations for Residents in Third Quarter – Staffing Assignment
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Begin training in the Junior Pharmacist in Charge (PIC) role
The resident (junior) and the normal (senior) management person on the weekend will both be
designated as PIC. These two persons will work together to manage the personnel and
workflow. The normal management person can help teach the resident how to solve problems
that arise during a shift.
The resident will not be in the float position unless scheduling dictates this as a need. However,
part of being PIC includes assessing both the unit dose and IV areas and helping in all areas.
The resident has an increased responsibility to keep in touch with the workflow and employees
during the shift. The resident should assure all work has been completed for the shift prior to
approving anyone to leave early (then check with the lead tech and check who is working in an
overtime slot to help with these decisions).
Communicate end of shift issues to the unit dose area evening pharmacist prior to leaving.
Personnel conflicts, staffing problems, catastrophes, and occupational health issues will defer to
the senior management person designated for the weekend.
Resident will check in with the pharmacist and technician mentors at the end of each weekend
shift to see if there are suggestions for improvement. If mentors are not working on the same
weekend, resident will check in with their mentors at the next available opportunity to discuss
any questions.
Expectations for Residents in Fourth Quarter – Staffing Assignment
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Resident will be assigned as the PIC and make independent decisions regarding issues that arise
with little assistance from the senior pharmacists. Residents should keep track of DI calls, extra
tasks and problem solving they are involved with to review with his/her mentor.
Expectations for Mentors
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Check in with residents at the end of each weekend workday or as soon as possible after their
weekend to work to discuss their staffing and PIC roles and answer any questions that arise.
Observe the residents during their staffing and PIC roles and offer tips and suggestions for
improvement.
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Provide feedback to the resident from other staff members as appropriate regarding their work
performance.
Prepare the quarterly evaluations for the residents in regard to their staffing experiences.
Expectation of Residents
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Submit a report of activities learned, accomplishments, problems solved etc. as well as areas in
need of clarification or focus for the next weekend by Monday following your weekend worked.
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Evaluation Process and Requirements
Evaluations
An essential component of developing the skills of a resident is frequent two-way feedback between
residents and preceptors. The preceptors, program director, and residents will frequently provide
feedback to one another via formal evaluation. Evaluation will occur as described below:
a. Rotation Summative Evaluations: Due no later than 7 working days after the end of the
previous rotation period. This is a written evaluation of the resident’s performances in
meeting the objectives of each rotation. The resident and preceptor will review these
evaluations together. The resident will also complete a preceptor and learning experience
evaluation.
b. Quarterly Evaluations: Longitudinal experiences will require a quarterly summative
evaluation where a written evaluation of the resident’s progress is completed. Learning
experience and preceptor evaluations must also be completed on a quarterly basis for these
experiences.
c. Criteria Based Assessments: Evaluations of selected activities will be completed by both a
preceptor and the resident.
Case Conferences
Journal Club
Therapeutic Exchange
d. Residency Council Reports: A written evaluation based on period review by the residency
council. This evaluation examines overall progress, including integration of skills learned in
separate rotations, non-rotation objectives/experiences, progress on longitudinal
requirements/rotations (residency project, criteria assessments, etc.) and any pertinent
trends or information found in evaluations to that date. Progress of the resident’s strengths,
weaknesses and career goals will be documented. To satisfactorily complete the residency,
the resident must have shown improvement over the course of the year in both resident
and preceptor scoring. For any goals in which less than a score of 3 is averaged, the resident
and program director will work together to develop individualized plans to assist in making
progress in those areas by residency end. If the resident does not work towards those plans
and progress improvement, residency completion with certificate may be compromised. On
a quarterly basis, goals in which the resident has scored an average of 5 for two consecutive
quarters will be removed from further evaluation.
All evaluations are to be discussed personally between resident and preceptor. All evaluations (rotation
summative on resident, resident on preceptor and resident on rotation overall), CBAs, and selfassessments should be forwarded to the resident program director or designee in electronic format. A
hard copy should be printed and signed by resident and evaluator and maintained in the resident’s
residency portfolio binder. The electronic database will document the review by the residency program
director.
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Documentation
Each resident will maintain/submit the following documentation:
1. Summative Self-Evaluation: Required for each rotation, CBA, and longitudinal experience. Each
evaluation is due 7 working days after the completion of the previous rotation period.
2. Rotation and Preceptor evaluations will be submitted to the preceptor and then program director or
designee within 7 working days following the completion of the rotation or designated quarterly
evaluation completion dates. This should be presented to the preceptor the same day that the
preceptor presents the block or longitudinal evaluation to the resident. The preceptor must sign off
on this in the evaluation database as reviewed.
3. Criteria Based Assessments (CBAs) are to be initiated by the resident as opportunities are
encountered then evaluated with corresponding preceptor. The evaluation is documented in
ResiTrak. Resident initiated CBAs:
 Case Conference
 Journal Club
 Therapeutic Exchange
4. Residency Notebook: The resident will maintain both a hardcopy and an electronic residency
notebook which shall be a complete record of the resident’s program activities. The notebook
should include the following:
 Orientation Checklist
 All residency-based evaluations including:
o Entering Interest form
o Goal-based evaluations
o Summative (by preceptor and self-evaluations)
o Preceptor evaluations
o Learning experience evaluations
o Custom evaluations
o Customized training plans
 A record of all educational in-services and seminars presented
o Outlines and/or lecture slides
o Evaluation of in-service or seminar where applicable
o Any edits that you received
 Residency Project Materials
o Proposal
o IRB submission
o Data collection & analysis
o Final manuscript
o Any edits that you received
 Any formulary reviews, written drug information responses or other completed assignments
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*The contents of the residency notebook serve as documentation of activities completed during the
residency year. The residency yearbook is a permanent record which is the property of Vanderbilt
University Medical Center.*
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Requirements for Receiving a Certificate
Upon successful completion of all program requirements and compliance with all conditions of the
residency program, Vanderbilt University Medical Center will award the resident a certificate indicating
successful completion of the residency program. The purpose of the PGY2 pharmacy informatics
residents is to prepare the pharmacist for practice in a pharmacy informatics position. Residency
training is designed to provide the resident experience in applying informatics and technology to
enhance care of the patient and support healthcare professionals. This is accomplished by staffing
responsibilities, clinical rotations (if desirable) and working with a broad range of medication systems,
health care professionals, and vendors.
This one year specialty residency and training program is designed to prepare and provide pharmacy
informatics experiences so that the resident will have the core skills to pursue pharmacy informatics as a
career. Through a varied list of potential activities including clinical systems, automation, robotics, and
pharmacy workflow management systems, the resident can have a robust learning environment.
All of the following criteria must be satisfied to successfully complete the program:






Completion of a residency research project that is approved by the program director and
submission of a formal write-up in manuscript format by June 1 of the academic year.
Completion of the required number of formal presentations (Journal Club, Therapeutic
Exchange and Topic Presentation).
Satisfactory completion of all rotations as determined by the primary preceptor for the rotation
Completion of the required number of Competency Based Assessments.
A minimum of 75% of all residency objectives marked as “Achieved for Residency” by preceptors
or residency program director.
Completion of the residency notebook.
Residents who fail to complete all program requirements and/or do not comply with all conditions of
the residency program shall not be awarded a certificate of completion.
Submission of a completed notebook to the program director (at the conclusion of the program) that
includes evaluations, self-evaluations, and preceptor and learning experience evaluations for all
concentrated and longitudinal experiences.
Poster presentation of the research project at the ASHP MYM Meeting or other comparable scientific
meeting.
Submission of project abstract for the annual SERC Southeastern Residency Conference or comparable
meeting.
The resident reports to and is supervised by the rotation preceptor and the residency director/
coordinator.
21 | P a g e
Responsibilities of the resident include:
Development of personal goals for the residency following an initial evaluation of career interests, prior
experience, and areas of strength and weakness.
Compliance with rotation expectations.
Meeting with the rotation preceptor to define individual goals and objectives for the rotation
completing assignments by the end of the rotation.
Scheduling routine meetings with rotation preceptor.
Informing the residency director of difficulties encountered in meeting goals and objectives or problems
with preceptors assuming responsibility of the rotation preceptor in his/her absence.
Preparing a written self-evaluation, preceptor and learning experience evaluation at the conclusion of
each rotation and quarterly for longitudinal requirements.
Timely communication regarding absences and requested leave; failure to inform the program director
of an absence/ illness will result in disciplinary action.
Completion of quarterly reports to be reviewed by the residency director; the purpose of these reports
will be to assure that the established residency goals and objectives are being achieved.
Provision of pharmacy staffing coverage as indicated on the Pharmacy Staffing Schedule.
Completion of a major residency project
PGY2 projects will be presented at platforms at the Southeastern Residency Conference (SERC) for
Pharmacy Residents and Preceptors.
Submissions of articles to departmental newsletters.
Attendance at the ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting and Southeastern Residency Conference for Pharmacy
Residents and Preceptors. Residents may attend other professional meetings if the staffing schedule
permits.
Submission of a completed notebook to the program director upon completion of the program. Specific
details regarding “Notebook Requirements” can be found in the program specific residency manual.
22 | P a g e
Learning Experience
Orientation
Clinical Systems
Clinical Pharmacy Systems
Clinical Rotation
Clinical Decision Support
Data Management
CDS II
Medication Safety
Technical Concepts
EHR & Vendor Relations
Ambulatory
Staffing
Automation Project
Research Project
23 | P a g e
Type
Rotation
Rotation
Rotation
Rotation
Rotation
Rotation
Rotation
Rotation
Rotation
Rotation
Rotation
Longitudinal
Longitudinal
Longitudinal
Duration
4 weeks
4 weeks
4 weeks
4 weeks
4 weeks
4 weeks
4 weeks
4 weeks
4 weeks
4 weeks
4 weeks
12 months
12 months
12 months
Designation
Required
Required
Required
Required
Required
Required
Elective
Required
Required
Elective
Elective
Required
Required
Required
Appendices
A: Orientation Checklist
B: Evaluation Schedule 2015-2016
C: Requirements Tracking Form
D: Requirement Timeline
E: Clinical On-Call
F: PTO Request Procedure
24 | P a g e
Appendix A: Orientation Checklist
Resident:________________
Pharmacy Resident
Central Pharmacy
Orientation Items
General Daily work flow Unit Dose Area
Times and associated tasks
Review Pharmacist Shift slots and associated duties
Pharmacist in charge
IV/Central UD Float
Central UD
IV/TPN
Review how to read/interpret staffing schedule
Review daily Technician slots and associated
responsibilities
Procurement Process
Storeroom Staff
Storeroom Responsibilities
Storage locations: walk in fridge, storeroom, Med
Carousels, PakPlus room Over fill cart, IV/TPN room
Med Carousel/Connect Rx Process
Log In code given
Pull on demand pick
Review of AcuDose/Cartfill Process
Pharmacist Scan process
Acceptance of AcuDose zones
AcuDose Fill Process
AcuDose Orientation with Frank Ray
Checking AcuDose Doses
AcuDose Log-in and Filling AcuDose Machines
Narcotic Check in Narcotic Room
Medication Error Recording Process in the Central Area
Internal Errors
External Errors
Narcotic Room Procedures
CII Safe Log-in and orientation with Charity Prater
Checking process
Discrepancy resolution
Narcotic orders attachment in HMM (patient specific)
Cart Fill Process
Pull process from Med Carousel
Check Process
Catch-up Doses
Delivery of meds to patient specific med drawers
Look alike – Sound alike medications
Extemp Process
Set up/Filling Process
Checking Process
Non-Sterile Compounding area
Orientation to Area
What type of products made
Who to ask if questions
PCCA
Order Processing (Vopping) in Central
Areas Central order processes for
What to send to the ED
25 | P a g e
Resident Initials
N/A
Trainer Initials
Date Reviewed
How to Clarify an order (resident pager list/operator)
Crash Carts
6 month expiration
Red Locks
Charges
ED Trays
Specific References: Psych book, IV reference manual
etc. Blood Factor book, Clozaril, MSDS, etc.
Borrow/Loan policy and procedures
Unit dose packaging
TadPoles
Bar coding Responsibilities of Pharmacy
Unit Dose Packaging Options
How to check items in Pak Plus
Tube system policy and procedures
Tube System Competency Check List
*Outpatient prescriptions, Stallworth and Psych Hospital
Procedures on weekends (cover on first weekend)
IV/TPN/IDS Room
Orientation Items
Resident Initials
Trainer Initials
Date Reviewed
General workflow and distribution of responsibilities amongst
pharmacists and technicians
How to find things in the IV room
IV preparation policy and procedures
Set up of IV Preparations and Batches
Reconstitution of vials
Preparation of syringes, PB, LVP and checking these
Storage of medications prior to delivery
Delivery Schedule
Sterile products preparation check off
Call for medications
Review of how we meet USP 797
Latex allergy policy and procedures
Review of IV resources: how to determine compatibilities,
expirations, Vandy IV manual, IV room website , latex website
Narcotic Preparation and wastage
Log sheets
Wastage record
Record of RX number in patient maintenance
Standard Time Schedules
Investigational Drug Area
TPN Area
Outpatient Areas
Orientation Items
Review of what and where all outpatient pharmacy services are
located, hours, key persons
**Indigent Med Program: policy and procedures – please learn
the process of who is eligible, what the policy is, how patients
are approved, and how much medication can be dispensed.
**Sample pharmacy: policy and procedures, location, products
available, how it works, who pays for it, and why we offer this
service, how to look up formulary for this
26 | P a g e
Resident Initials
Trainer Initials
Date Reviewed
Process for prior authorization etc. of high cost drugs and our
policy/procedure for handling these (identify main agents etc.)
How we manage the purchase, distribution and charging of
medications used in the clinics
Medicare/Tenncare issues
What are the toughest problems in clinic medication
reimbursement
Coumadin Clinic
**Who is serviced/eligible
**How to enroll a patient (Starpanel) – please walk the
resident through the Starpanel process
How information is communicated/documented
Policy and Procedures/Protocol CC follows
Staff involved in clinic
Standards of care in regards to anticoagulation
History of the service at Vanderbilt
Credentials involved and structure of providing this service
Quality assurance/improvement in this area
N/A
Order Processing: Orientation Checklist
Orientation Items
Resident Initials
Trainer Initials
Date Reviewed
Orient to satellites
Locations
Areas serviced by each
Hours
Order clarifications
Work flow
Pharmacist and technician responsibilities
Adverse Drug Reaction reporting , Medication Error reporting
Customer Service Focus
Intervention Documentation
Telephone Courtesy/Etiquette
IV medication administration policy and chart
Meds/Devices brought from home
PCA Pump Policy
DI Resources: Micromedex, Lexi-Comp, Kings, Facts &
Comp, Up to Date, Trissell’s, Pubmed
Alaris GuardRails for IV pumps
How to use phone and beeper system
Dashboards (Will do with Pratish or appropriate pharmacist)
Orientation Items
Warfarin
Aminoglycoside
Heparin
Consults
27 | P a g e
Resident Initials
Trainer Initials
Date Reviewed
Appendix B: Evaluation Schedule 2015-2016
28 | P a g e
Appendix C: Tracking Form
SUMMATIVE EVALUATIONS
Rotation
Rotation 1
Rotation 2
Rotation 3
Rotation 4
Rotation 5
Rotation 7
Rotation 8
Rotation 9
Rotation 10
Quarter 2
Quarter 3
Quarter 4
Preceptor’s Evaluation
Resident Self-Assessment
Learning Experience
Rotation
Rotation 6
Preceptor’s Evaluation
Resident Self-Assessment
Learning Experience
LONGITUDINAL EVALUATIONS
Quarter 1
Hospital Practice (Staffing)
Preceptor’s Evaluation
Resident Self-Assessment
Learning Experience
Residency Project
Preceptor’s Evaluation
Resident Self-Assessment
Learning Experience
Automation Project
Preceptor’s Evaluation
Resident Self-Assessment
Learning Experience
Training Plan Progress
Residency Council Report
Resident Training Plan
Self-Assess
TOPIC PRESENTATIONS
#1
#2
#1
#2
Preceptor’s Evaluation
Resident Self-Assessment
Learning Experience
JOURNAL CLUB
Preceptor’s Evaluation
Resident Self-Assessment
Learning Experience
29 | P a g e
Rotation 11
THERAPEUTIC EXCHANGE
Preceptor’s Evaluation
Resident Self-Assessment
Learning Experience
OTHER REQUIREMENTS (WITHOUT FORMAL EVAUALTIONS)
SERC Presentation
Manuscript
Project Requirements
Proposal
Research Project
30 | P a g e
IRB
Data
Collection
Presentation
Report/
Manuscript
Appendix D: Requirement Timeline
(For Guidance Purposes Only; Dates are subject to change based on individual resident goals/assigned tasks)
**This may not be all inclusive – watch your residency requirements tracking form!**
July
Baseline self-assessment (Entering resident interest and preference information)
Select and develop 60 minute CE Presentation
Dates for Journal Club, Case Presentation Selected, CE Presentation
August
Project topic/preceptor confirmed
Project literature review and bibliography completed and submitted.
MUE topic selected and timeline for completion established.
Register for ASHP Midyear Meeting
September
Project design/Methods write-up complete
Project Proposal Presentation –IRB submissions
If taking a poster to MYCM, investigate deadlines for abstract submission
How many Criteria Based Assessments have you completed? Pace yourself!
Evaluate where you stand with longitudinal assignments (P&T Monograph, MUE)
October
Project Proposal completion and submitting to IRB, establish timeline for project data collection
and analysis etc.
Recruitment Showcases
Case Presentations and Journal Clubs
November
If taking a poster to MYCM need to complete slide by mid November.
Recruitment Showcases
How many Criteria Based Assessments have you completed? Pace yourself!
Résumé preparation and interview skills
December
ASHP Midyear – UHC Posters, showcase
January
Register for SERC and Prepare SERC abstract
February
Complete and submit SERC abstract
Wind up data collection for project
Case presentations and journal clubs
How many Criteria Based Assessments have you completed? Pace yourself!
March
Project: begin organizing data – analyze data - results
April
Pre-SERC project presentation I, II, III, IV, SERC
How many Criteria Based Assessments have you completed? Pace yourself!
May
Project manuscript – first draft completed May 15th
June
Final Project manuscript due June 15
All Criteria Based Assessment Requirements completed by Jun 15
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Appendix E: Unique Learning Experiences
Staffing Experience
Research Project
32 | P a g e
Residency Project Description Worksheet
2015-16
_________________________________________________________________
Resident:
Project Advisor:
Date of Initiation:
Date of Completion:
Responsible Investigators:
Department(s) Involved:
Key Personnel to Obtain Approval From:
Question to be answered:
Expected Outcomes of the Study:
Rationale for the Study:
Defining Measurements:
Data that will be collected:
Databases to Study or Create:
Data Analysis:
Description of Results:
Benefit to the Resident:
Benefit to the Department:
Likelihood of Publication:
Commitments:
33 | P a g e
______________
Resident
_________________
Preceptor
__________
Other
Past Residency Projects
2006 – 2016
Year
Resident
Title
2006 - 2007
Alan Chung
2007 - 2008
Alan Chung
2008 - 2009
Matt Marshall
Evaluation of an Integrated Computerized
Pharmacist Intervention Database
Minimizing Alert Fatigue in a
Pharmacy Computer System
Traffic Jams in the Medication-Use Superhighway
2011 - 2012
Wing Liu
2012 - 2013
Vanitra Richards
2013 - 2014
Anuj Thirwani
2014 - 2015
Seth Strawbridge
2015 - 2016
Taylor Woodroof
*
◊
34 | P a g e
Reconciliation of Drug-Drug Interaction Alerts Between
Customized and Commercial Database Compendia
Evaluation of Contraindicated Drug-Drug Interaction in
a CPOE System, a Pharmacy Information System,
and an Electronic Prescribing System
Implementation of Clinical Decision Support to
enhance Antimicrobial Stewardship-guided novel
Laboratory Test Ordering
Using Smart Pump Technology to Improve Charge
Capture of Outpatient Infusions
Comparing Medications Lists to Problem Lists Using a
Medication-Indication Matching Resource
Presented at the Southeastern Residents Conference (SERC) in Athens, GA
Presented at the ASHP Residency Poster Presentation
Comment
*
*◊
◊
*
*
*◊
◊
Staffing Learning Experience
Preceptor: Jason Tomichek, PharmD
Phone: 615.322-6003
General Description
The Pharmacy Practice longitudinal rotation is an opportunity for the resident to develop foundational practice skills in
hospital pharmacy practice. The residency will work in the VUH Inpatient Operation Central and Satellite pharmacies.
The resident will develop proficiency in automated central distribution, narcotic distribution and management,
extemporaneous oral preparations, medication order processing, drug information, intravenous admixture and TPN
admixture. The resident will also develop an understanding of workflow processes in a department setting, as well as
medication safety monitoring.
The resident is required to staff every fourth weekend 7a-3:30p and one evening during the week 3:30-7p. Resident will
train and staff in the Central pharmacy during the first semester of the PGY1 year. Around the first of January, the
residents will receive cross training in the 6th floor pharmacy satellite to augment their view of patient care in a hospital
setting. They will staff the first two hours of their weekday shift on the 6th floor satellite once training is complete.
Goals and Objectives
The goals selected to be taught and evaluated during this learning experience include:
 Goal R1.3: Prepare and dispense medications following existing standards of practice and the organization’s
policies and procedures.
 Goal R2.1: Evaluate the validity of information and knowledge in the organization’s technology and
automation systems.
 Goal R2.2: Assure that all patient-specific, medication –specific, and evidence-based pharmacotherapy
information required to support effective medication-related decisions is readily available in a useful format
to members of interdisciplinary, patient-centered teams.
 Goal R4.1: Demonstrate a working knowledge of available technology and automation systems for
prescribing medications.
 Goal R4.2: Demonstrate a working knowledge of currently available automated technology for order
processing.
 Goal R4.3: Demonstrate a working knowledge of currently available automated devices for the safe and
efficient distribution and dispensing of medications.
 Goal R4.9: Contribute to resolution of identified operational problems.
Activities
The activities assigned to this learning experience reflect the activities a pharmacist working in this environment is
expected to be able perform. These activities were also selected to help you work toward achieving specific objectives
which in turn will help you achieve the goals assigned to the learning experience.
Activity
Demonstrate proficiency in the VUH Inpatient Pharmacy
Demonstrate proficiency with systems and processes and manage the
established levels of efficiency
Demonstrate a broad view of the work place and rotate among the various
stations maintaining effective work flow and efficiency
Display initiative in preventing, identifying, and resolving pharmacy-related
35 | P a g e
Objectives Covered
OBJ R2.1.1-2
OBJ R4.1-1-2
OBJ R4.2.1-2
OBJ R4.3.1-2
OBJ R1.3.1-4
Activity
patient-care problems
Utilize and have understanding of effectiveness, efficiency, customary
practice and the recipient's preferences to determine the appropriate type
of, and medium and organization for, communication
Use listening skills effectively in performing job functions.
Use time management skills effectively to fulfill practice responsibilities
Objectives Covered
OBJ R2.1.1-2
OBJ R2.2.1-2
OBJ R4.9.1
Preceptor Interaction
There will be assigned staffing mentor. This person will work with the resident on their designated weekend help the
resident understand all operational aspects of the pharmacy. The staffing mentor is to assist the resident in any
operations questions and to evaluate the resident’s progress in operational activities throughout the year.
Evaluation Strategy
Evaluation of residents will be based on the RLS Learning Goals. Resident will complete the weekend review form to help
foster discussion with their longitudinal mentor, RPC and staffing evaluator.
Evaluation will consist of a summative evaluation at the end of each quarter (September, December, March, June). The
specific goals and objectives, on which the resident will be evaluated, will be provided at the beginning of the rotation.
Residents will be requested to complete a self-evaluation for all evaluations. Residents will also be required to complete
a learning experience evaluation and a preceptor evaluation. Evaluations are completed in Resitrak. All work to be
evaluated on rotation must be turned in for review no later than the last day of the rotation.
Timeline for the Experience
This is a longitudinal experience that will last the duration of the residency year.
36 | P a g e
Staffing Guidance and Expectations
First Quarter
 Orient to the Central Pharmacy and learn the procedures of both the unit dose area and the sterile products
preparation areas.
 Adjust to the scheduling assignments and focus on being present and ready to work in the assigned area at the
assigned time. Stay in the work area during your entire shift and be available to focus on the work at hand.
Observe appropriate break time such as 30 minutes for lunch breaks. Learn to indicate any scheduling
adjustments on the posted pharmacist schedule such as swaps in assignments
 Develop an understanding of the systems and processes and develop skills such as with CPOE order processing
(“VOP”).
 Develop relationships with the Central Area team.
 Follow the established dress code and other workplace policies. Be sensitive to the needs of the other staff in
the area and do not routinely ask to leave early. Make sure that work is caught up prior to leaving your
assignment.
 Begin to develop a broader view of the work place and rotate among the various stations (AcuDose check or cart
check, extemp prep, packaging machine, phones, tube station, IV Room, etc.) in order to maintain and effective
work flow and efficiency level.
 Learn to collaborate with other staff members shift regarding work flow issues or whenever time may become
available to work on projects but remain available to return your focus to the work at hand whenever workload
increases.
 Remain flexible and ask questions.
 Resident will check in with the pharmacist and technician mentors at the end of each weekend shift to see if
there are suggestions for improvement are areas that they would like more exposure and complete The
Weekend Staffing Report. This report will include activities learned, accomplishments, problems solved etc. as
well as areas in need of clarification or focus for the next weekend.
Second Quarter
 Demonstrate proficiency in all areas of the Central Pharmacy.
 Demonstrate proficiency with systems and processes and manage the established levels of efficiency.
 Demonstrate a broad view of the work place and rotate among the various stations maintaining effective work
flow and efficiency.
 Primary assignment will be to float between the IV Room and Unit Dose areas
 Resident will check in with the pharmacist and technician mentors at the end of each weekend shift to see if
there are suggestions for improvement are areas that they would like more exposure and complete The
Weekend Staffing Report.
Third Quarter
 As above with more autonomy
 Begin floating to 6th Floor Satellite to obtain broader vision of pharmacy services
Fourth Quarter
 Begin to practice some skills related to the (PIC) role such as having an increased responsibility and awareness of
the workflow and employees during the shift. The resident should assure all work has been completed for the
shift prior to approving anyone to leave early (then check with the lead tech and check who is working in an
overtime slot to help with these decisions).
 Communicate end of shift issues to the unit dose area evening pharmacist prior to leaving.
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Staffing Form
Pharmacist Resident
Staffing Report
Name:
Date:
Location for staffing:
Pharmacist in charge:
What did I do this weekend? (check all that apply)
 Answered at least 5 phone calls
 Regenerated or rescheduled an order
 Dose Edge
 Vop at least 20 orders in HMM
 Checked/Filled Extempts
 Helped resolve staffing issue (ie sick call)
 Identified and resolved a medication error and
documented in Veritas
 Checked crash cart, ED, FEL trays
 Prepared indigent meds
 Clozapine registry
 IDS dispense
 Sent missing dose
 Helped resolve an AcuDose issue
 Documented my interventions/DI Questions in
Quantifi
 Checked Pak Plus
 Psych Orders
 Prepared and checked out event box
 Borrow and Loan
 Checked or prepared compounding item
 Verified and dispensed Factor order
 Checked TPN
 Checked or dispensed narcotic with CDR
 Connect RX (stock outs, inventory, event report)
 Med Carousel
 Other_____________________________
What did I learn this weekend?
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
Next weekend, I want to learn or try to:
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
Comments from pharmacist in charge:
Initials__________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
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Research Project Learning Experience
RPD: Phillip W. Stewart, DPh
Phone: 615.936.2930 Cell: 615.829.1347
Research Preceptor: Scott D Nelson, PharmD, MS (Determined depending on research topic)
Cell: 801.953.7335
General Description
The purpose of the research project is for the resident to design and implement a research project that will benefit the
resident, the Department, and the institution. A project, administered by the resident and mentored by a primary
preceptor, is required of all residents. One preceptor will be selected for each project who will act to facilitate the
project, mentor the resident, and who shares responsibility for meeting deadlines, submission of applications for
research (IRB, etc.), presentations and manuscript development and submission. The project plan submitted should
be binding to the resident and to the preceptor(s) involved.
Project ideas will be reviewed by the Pharmacy Informatics Residency Advisory Council and available for selection by
the resident. The council will serve as a consultant for the residency project and the resident should report to the
committee throughout the research design process.
The resident is to perform a significant amount of literature review, project design, data gathering, statistical
evaluation, writing, and reporting of the project. The end product is a presentation at the Southeastern Residency
Conference or comparable venue and a written manuscript suitable for publication.
Goals and Objectives
The goals selected to be taught and evaluated during this learning experience include:
 Goal R1.3: Evaluate opportunities for improving operational efficiencies in order to better serve patient and
health professional needs through the application of informatics principles, standards, and best practices.
 Goal R2.1: Evaluate the validity of information and knowledge in organization’s technology and automation
systems.
 Goal R5.2: Participate in the implementation of a technology or automation system.
 Goal R5.4: Report the findings of a technology or automation system project.
 Goal R6.1: Demonstrate the personal skills and abilities of a pharmacy informatics leader.
 Goal R6.3: Demonstrate the technical skills essential to the role of a pharmacy informatics.
 Goal R6.4: Represent pharmacy informatics concerns in strategic planning for the implementation, use and
maintenance of technology and automation systems.
 Goal E1.1: Design, executes, and report results of investigations of pharmacy informatics-related issues.
Activities
The activities assigned to this learning experience reflect the activities a pharmacist working in this environment is
expected to be able perform. These activities were also selected to help you work toward achieving specific objectives
which in turn will help you achieve the goals assigned to the learning experience.
Activity
Formulate a feasible design for a pharmacy practice related
research project.
Collect and analyze appropriate data in order to formulate and
present conclusion on a practice related issue.
Secure IRB approval for project needs.
Synthesize a manuscript suitable for publication and a presentation
to be presented at a regional or national conference.
Participate in all aspects of the implementation of the project.
Develop specific aims and design study methods that will answer
39 | P a g e
Objectives Covered
Obj R 1.3.1
Obj R 2.1.1-2
Obj R 2.1.1-2
Obj R 6.4.1
Obj R 5.4.1
Obj E 1.1.1-8
Obj R 5.2.1-4
Obj R 6.1.1-7
Activity
the question identified.
Draw valid conclusions through evaluation of the data.
Participate in contingency planning.
Report the findings to colleagues.
Objectives Covered
Obj R 6.2.1-2
Obj R 6.3.1-11
Obj R 2.1.1-2
Obj R 5.3.1-3
Obj R 5.4.1
Preceptor Interaction
There will be assigned a lead preceptor for the research project based on which preceptor submitted the project idea.
The lead preceptor is responsible for assisting the resident through the project logistics, reviewing the project
presentations and manuscript, and evaluating the resident via PharmAcademic.
Evaluation Strategy
There will be a formal evaluation through PharmAcademic for this Learning Experience. The preceptor will meet with the
resident after the presentation to review the evaluations and to formally discuss the presentation.
Research plan
 Identify a topic
 Review the literature on your topic
o What has been done? Where are the gaps? What is known? What is unknown?
 Define the specific aims
o Please don’t include a description of your methods in the aims. The aims should be short and very
clear.
o Example: “to test (evaluate, assess) the impact of “independent variable” on the “dependent
variable.”  Develop a research proposal
o Background
 Provide background introduction
 State why this study is important
o Specific aims
 Describe the purpose of the study
 Include at least 1 dependent variable to test
o Conceptual model
 State an overview of why you think your method will work
o Methods
 Design
 What is the study design?
 Subjects
 Inclusion/exclusion criteria, timeframe, recruitment, etc.
 Power analysis
 Estimate sample size and effect size needed
 Description of the intervention
 What is it you are going to do?
 Procedures
 How are you going to do it?
 Description of the data/variables
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






 Include data type, source, reliability, validity
 Analysis
 What analysis techniques will you use? Statistics
 What will the data analysis tables look like?
 What should the final results look like?
o Limitations
 List confounders, data quality, and external validity
o Project management/timeline
 Time line and responsibilities of researchers
Complete CITI training and fill out the IRB application
o Citi website: http://www.citiprogram.org
o IRB website: http://www4.vanderbilt.edu/irb/
Submit the study for IRB approval
Collect the data
o Data structure/data model
o Pilot data collection
o Test for reliability and validity of the data
Data analysis
o Carry out the analysis
Preliminary report on findings (presentation)
o Get feedback from others
Abstract preparation
o Submit to a conference
Manuscript preparation
o Submit to a peer-reviewed journal
Evaluation strategy
There will be a formal evaluation through PharmAcademic for this learning experience. The lead preceptor will meet
with the resident after the presentation to review the evaluations and to formally discuss the presentations and
manuscript.
Project timeline
Project topic/title selection
Literature review complete
Project plan
IRB submission/CITI training
Data collection complete
Data analysis complete
First abstract draft
Abstract/paper submission
First SERC presentation draft
First manuscript draft
Submission to peer-reviewed journal
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Aug 1st
Sep 1st
Oct 15th
Nov 1st
Jan 1st
Mar 1st
Mar 7th
Mar 15th
Apr 1st
May 15th
Jun 15th
Appendix G: PTO Request Procedures
Purpose: To ensure that pharmacy services are provided 365 days per year by Clinical Pharmacists or
Residents in order to prevent service disruptions that could impact patient safety.
1. PTO Request Process
a. Email RPD by the 10th of the month to request time off for the following month. Earlier
notification is preferred. The RPD will check with the assigned preceptor regarding any time off
requests.
b. RPD will communicate PTO to the appropriate staff if approved.
2. Holidays
a. Vanderbilt recognizes 7 holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day,
Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas day. It is assumed that PTO will be used on
these holidays. If you wish to or are assigned to work one of these holidays, advance
notification is required
b. Holiday work is scheduled in advance by Molly Knostman
c. When a holiday is worked on a regular work day (M-F), no Off Day is taken and no PTO is
deducted. If you work a holiday on a weekend, an Off Day will be taken, and no PTO deducted.
d. Holidays may be traded with other residents, but must be approved by Molly and the RPD.
e. Off Days during the week of Christmas and Thanksgiving are not scheduled without approval in
order to ensure appropriate coverage.
3. Sick Call Process
a. Email or call Fred Hargrove, and Phillip Stewart.
b. Email your current preceptor.
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