Pharmacists also answer questions about prescription drugs such as possible adverse reactions and when and how to take the medication. In addition, they provide information concerning nonprescription drugs and possible reactions with prescription medication. Pharmacists who own or manage retail pharmacies may buy and sell non-health related merchandise and home health care supplies, as well as hire and supervise personnel.
Some pharmacists work in hospitals and clinics.
Their duties include the dispensing of medications and making up sterile solutions and other medication used within the hospital. A five-year bachelor s degree is required in order to become a registered pharmacist. Rend Lake College offers two years of excellent preparation, but some professional schools prefer a student transfer at the beginning of the second year in order to take four years of training at the senior institution. As early as possible, students should determine the school to which they will transfer and follow specific guidelines set forth by that institution. If students spend a second year at RLC, they may be required to attend a summer session at the professional school to pick up specialized courses normally taught during the second year.