Preceptors

Much of what we learn about radiopharmacy we learn by doing, by working with a mentor in the pharmacy.  This is why the component of experiential education by trained preceptors is critical to the success of our program.  To insure the integrity of the educational process we have adopted the following guidelines and information for preceptors:

For any questions regarding the experiential program or information on becoming a preceptor contact Kristina Wittstrom, BCNP at 505-272-3661 or email aaaaa@unm.edu

Preceptor Qualifications  

  • Board Certified Nuclear Pharmacist (preferred)

  • Minimum of three years dispensing experience as a nuclear pharmacist

  • Willing to participate in Preceptor Training Program

  • Willing to comply with structured experiential program

  • Student evaluations and assessments as requested

  • Adequate time to work with student

Preceptor Training

Preceptors are required to participate in a training program before working with students.  A training session will be held on March 15, 2002 prior to the APhA meeting in Philadelphia.  Additional training opportunities are available online.

Site Requirements

  • Dispenses an average of 50+ prescriptions per weekday

  • Handles I-131 (draws unit doses or makes capsules from bulk I-131 NaI)

  • Has adequate pharmacist staffing

  • Maintains nuclear pharmacy reference library

Pharmacy Equipment List

A Nuclear Pharmacy preceptor site should have available, or access to, the equipment listed below.  Equipment should be in use and maintained in accordance with radioactive materials license commitments and in accordance with local, state and federal regulations.

  • Laminar Airflow Hood

  • Dispensing Shields

  • Dose Calibrator

  • Dose Calibrator Reference Sources

  • Other References Sources as appropriate

  • Single Channel Analyzer

  • Multi-channel Analyzer

  • Survey Meters (preferably of more than one type)

  • Ion Chamber or Energy Compensated Probe

  • Rate Meters

  • Syringe Shields

  • Vial and Unit Dose Shields

  • Thin Layer Chromatography System (including media and solvents)

  • Heating Unit or Device

  • Iodine Handling System (Fume Hood, Glove Box etc)

  • Air Monitoring System

  • Bioassay System

  • Sterility Testing System (including media)

  • Pyrogen Testing System (including media)

  • Personnel Dosimetry

Responsibilities of a Preceptor

  •  Explanation and demonstration of a skill to the student

  • Student practices the skill under close supervision and with preceptor feedback

  • Student becomes responsible for performing the task with the preceptor available for supervision and support.

  • Preceptor assesses the student’s level of competency.