Evaluating the performance of technician trainees

The development and use of a behavioral performance evaluation form for pharmacy technicians in a hospital-based training program is described. The behavior anchors for the evaluation form were derived from a task analysis of the technician position and a modified critical-incident technique. The appraisal factors were classified under six basic work areas: (1) procurement, (2) intravenous admixtures and sterile solutions, (3) automatic replenishment, (4) manufacturing and prepacking, (5) outpatient dispensing, and (6) inpatient dispensing or unit dose. Five rating categories ranging from exceptional to unsatisfactory were given point values. After an evaluation is completed, the supervising pharmacist reviews it with the trainees and sets objectives for the next appraisal period. The form can be used at regular intervals to assess the trainees' progress, and it can be used in the annual review of a technician's performance. The performance evaluation of technician trainees can determine the proficiency gained from a training program and identify areas where further instruction is needed.