Vaccine Administration for Pharmacy Technicians

The Expanding Role of Pharmacy Technicians in Immunization

The PREP Act authorization during the COVID-19 pandemic opened the door for pharmacy technicians to administer vaccines under pharmacist supervision. Many states have since passed permanent legislation allowing trained technicians to immunize patients, creating a significant expansion of the technician's clinical role.

Training Requirements

To administer vaccines, most states require technicians to:

• Hold current PTCB (CPhT) or equivalent certification
• Complete an ACPE-accredited immunization training program
• Maintain current CPR/BLS certification
• Complete a hands-on injection technique training session
• Work under the direct supervision of a licensed pharmacist

Common Pharmacy-Administered Vaccines

• Influenza - Annual seasonal vaccine, most commonly administered in pharmacies
• COVID-19 - mRNA and updated variant vaccines
• Shingles (Shingrix) - Two-dose series for adults 50+
• Pneumococcal (Prevnar 20, Pneumovax 23)
• Tdap (Boostrix, Adacel) - Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis
• HPV (Gardasil 9)
• Hepatitis A and B

Injection Technique

Most vaccines are administered intramuscularly (IM) in the deltoid muscle. Key steps: Select the correct needle gauge and length (typically 22-25 gauge, 1 to 1.5 inch for adults), clean the injection site with alcohol, insert at a 90-degree angle, aspirate briefly (per protocol), inject the vaccine, apply pressure with a cotton ball, and dispose of the needle in a sharps container.

Adverse Event Monitoring and Reporting

After administration, patients should be observed for 15-30 minutes for signs of anaphylaxis. Emergency supplies including epinephrine must be immediately accessible. Adverse events must be reported through the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). The National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act requires reporting of specified events.

Immunization is a growing area that enhances your value as a certified pharmacy technician.