Implementation of a pharmacy technician career ladder and pharmacy technician training program.

Purpose: To describe the implementation of a pharmacy technician career ladder and internal technician training program at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville, FL.

Summary: As the systems for providing care and receiving reimbursement become more complex, the ability to deliver comprehensive care in the most efficient and effective manner is critical. In order to maximize impact, pharmacists must practice at the top of their license.

Evaluation of an Intravenous Potassium Dosing Algorithm for Hypokalemic Critically Ill Patients.

Purpose: The intent of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of an intravenous (IV) potassium (K) dosing algorithm for hypokalemic critically ill trauma patients.

Methods: Adult patients, admitted to the trauma intensive care unit from June 2010 to October 2012 and who received IV K therapy according to a standardized dosing algorithm, were retrospectively evaluated. Patients who received IV K during resuscitation or following initiation of nutrition therapy, IV fluids containing >20 mEq/L of potassium, or medications known to alter K homeostasis or those with an arterial pH change >0.