Platt Tulsa Open House in December

The Tulsa campus of Platt College will host an Open House on December 21rst at 4pm to 7pm. This will be a time for all current students to bring in friends and family and show them the campus and the magic that happens during the school day. There will be refreshments and guests will be able to participate in special activities. This will be an excellent opportunity for all prospective students to see what Platt College has to offer them as well. That's Wednesday, December 21rst at 4pm at 3801 S. Sheridan in Tulsa. Guests to the Pharmacy Technician Program will be able to make their own hand sanitizers or our version of Vick's Vaporub. Did I mention that this will happen on Wednesday the 21rst of December at 4pm?

Last week of the school year...

The Pharmacy Technician Program in Tulsa is going to have a busy week. Final examinations in math, pharmacology, and anatomy and physiology will take up most of the week. I have scheduled a pharmacy/hospital tour on Wednesday. Friday we will have a mini-Christmas celebration before they go on break. I am going to attempt to demonstrate the making of a sterile I.V. This week will be so busy that I need to quit talking about it and get it started. If I don't get another blog in this week, Merry Christmas (or whatever you celebrate) to you all and stay safe and warm.

Dental Assistants reach out to Infant Crisis Center

Today we had the unique pleasure of visiting with the staff from the Oklahoma City Infant Crisis Center. We are currently studying emryology and the needs of dentistry to infants and small children so it was by luck and excellent timing that we received this visit today. The coordinator, Jerry Fitzgerald, and instructor, Aimee Tunnell, are working close with the IFC to secure a date for our students to go out, educate the public on infant dental health, and tour their awesome facilities! It is great to have a day off of studying and reach out to the community. Awesome job dental class!!


http://www.plattcolleges.edu/AlliedHealth/AlliedHealth-Disclosures.htm
Since 1979, Platt College exists with one purpose; to create a workforce of professionals with the skills and training necessary to answer the needs of today's and tomorrow's workplace. The college is located in Tulsa, Moore, Lawton, Central and North Oklahoma City as well as in Dallas, Texas. For more information call 405-946-7799, or visit www.plattcolleges.edu.

Getting Close...

Today is the last day of the month of November. The students can feel that the break is near. I have heard that some feel they will forget things by the time they come back. We are suggesting daily short reviews of all the material they have covered in class. That way, resuming class will not be traumatic. Some have even asked for math homework. Since the instructors are at school for most of the holidays, we can provide some extra tutoring if necessary. But most of all, we want our students to enjoy some time with loved ones and come back refreshed and eager to absorb what we have to offer.

PT Program Reporting For Duty

The Pharmacy Technician Program instructors are back on the job. Our mission, which we have accepted, is to make these last two weeks before Christmas break most productive. They have to be due to the 4 week break. We want the students to enjoy their break but have something to do during the break that will keep their knowledge and skills up. The entire group will be practicing sterile compounding and hopefully perfecting their technique. I will be showing them how to do a sterile I.V. compound next week. It is going to be a busy 10 days! January 9th starts the new program and not too late to get your seat reserved! Just call 918-663-9000 and join the fun!

Tuesday in Tulsa

We had an awesome day yesterday beginning with our Monday morning missive by Mr. Garry Hemphill. He made the class smile. Literally made them smile. I think it changed their day because the mood seemed elevated. Probably had nothing at all to do with the upcoming four day weekend. Today, the incredible Culinary Program is preparing a feast for all the students on campus. What an undertaking! I think it is so wonderful that Platt College thinks so much of their students that they would provide a type of Thanksgiving lunch for everyone. I love working for a company that cares so much for their students.

Friday Before Black Friday

This being the last Friday before a 4 day holiday, I have a moment to reflect on things. I believe the Pharmacy Technician Program in Tulsa has the best group of students that has come thru the doors of Platt College. Having had the opportunity to teach at the OKC, Lawton, and Dallas campuses I see many similarities in those wishing a pharmacy career. This is just one of the many occupations that will never go away due to the fact that there will always be a need for medications. Pharmacy technician students are very career-minded. They know what they want from this program from the very beginning. National certification is of prime concern to them. The ability to put the initials C.Ph.T. after their name gives them a great level of satisfaction. I generally get their first phone call after passing the Pharmacy Certification Examination and they can't hide their enthusiasm. Oftentimes I see our graduates at pharmacies all over town and marvel at their confidence and professionalism. I sometimes wonder if I had their level of self-awareness at that age.

Thursday is Thanksgiving Day in the US...my calendar says in the US. Everyday is thanksgiving day. We have so much. Living in the greatest nation is the world is reason enough to have thanks daily. Having a wonderful building to work and learn in is a great reason to be thankful. Having a director that believes in you and allows you to succeed is a blessing. Having a partner that never misses a beat and is learning to move up and take the reins of the Pharmacy Technician Program is a gift I cherish. Having students who not only get along but encourage and teach each other is incredible. Having the opportunity to make a positive difference is the reason for breathing. Take some time for yourself during this celebration of thanks. Give some time to others as you give thanks.

Off and Running Again

The senior class is beginning to feel the pressure. In this block we have a total of five pharmacology tests. I applaud these students because they go above and beyond and learn more than what is expected.

Incredible Junior Class

The Tulsa Pharmacy Technician Program has been gifted with four of the most incredible young ladies ever assembled in a classroom. This is their first block and they are absorbing every bit of information that Kristi and I can provide. It warms the heart of every instructor to know that the students love what they are learning. I hope these ladies know how much we appreciate them.

Sterile Products Calculations...

Pharmacy Technician students in the Tulsa P.T. program are getting excited because they are getting it. The math that was once considered complex is getting easier. My math teacher in pharmacy school told me the only way to get pharmaceutical calculations is to do it. Then do it again. Then do it again. Do lots of problems so that you establish some good habits and they will tend to stick. I feel some days I am turning into Mr. Edwin Hellmich. I owe him for making me do math over and over.

It's Monday Again...

The students are back after a three day break and ready to learn. It is truly amazing that some are here after hearing about their weekends. Many have jobs that would take a normal mortal away from school but they are here every day. They have my respect. I sometimes wonder if I had their tenacity, what I could have accomplished. By the way, congratulations go to Chef Dale on his win of the blogging contest.

Busy Week for PT Students

Here it is Wednesday and students are beginning to get excited about the Thanksgiving and Christmas break. Parties are already being planned and we in the P.T. program are doing the same. We will have a luncheon before the Thanksgiving break and a Christmas luncheon on the 9th of December. Students are getting into the spirit and thinking this Friday is the start of the holidays, when in reality, the staff is meeting in OKC for an in-service.

Shaken, Not Stirred

Platt Tulsa seems to be intact this morning as I came in. I noticed a pamphlet rack had fallen over due to the earthquake(s). I will be doing a more thorough inspection right after this blog and report my findings to our director. I do not anticipate too much of anything...we are Sound and Solid!!!

Robin Harris, Practical Nursing Instructor, Platt Central recently had the opportunity to speak at the Oklahoma Nurses Annual Convention. Robin and Lisa Paden, a classmate in the OBU Masters of Science in Nursing program-OKC, gave a presentation pertaining to Safe Nurse Staffing Levels, patient safety, and current legislation in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. Both presenters were very proud to discuss the historical and current activities of professonal nurses that have brought these issues to the attention of the public. Nurses at every level make a impact at the community, city, state, national and international level. Go Nurses!!!

The prfessional organization for the Licensed Practical Nurse is the National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses, http://www.nflpn.org/ . I encourage every Platt PN student to become an active member in your professional organization as soon as you graduate. Together, nurses can make a difference for our profession, our patients, and our families.

http://www.plattcolleges.edu/AlliedHealth/AlliedHealth-Disclosures.htm
Since 1979, Platt College exists with one purpose; to create a workforce of professionals with the skills and training necessary to answer the needs of today's and tomorrow's workplace. The college is located in Tulsa, Moore, Lawton, Central and North Oklahoma City as well as in Dallas, Texas. For more information call 405-946-7799, or visit http://www.plattcolleges.edu/.

FRIDAY...need I say more?

This has been an incredible day! The Pharmacy Technician students are eating up the information provided them. The seniors are actually enjoying I.V. math! They found out it is not as hard as they made it out to be. The juniors are memorizing the equivalents and are finding out the same thing. We simplify the math that your high school math teacher didn't have time to do.

Fourth Day of Block

Here it is Thursday and the 4th day of the final block of this calendar year. Our new students are already learning the history of medicine and pharmacy and our seasoned students are preparing for their first pharmacology test and are learning all the math involved in preparing a sterile product (I.V.). We provided the students a bit of insight into the Professional Advisory Board meeting from Tuesday night and they listened intently when it was mentioned what the employers were looking for in an employee.

Meeting for PT Last Night

The PT Program's Advisory Board Meeting was last evening and well attended including our Director Stephanie Thrasher. We were honored that she attended. An excellent presentation by Garry Hemphill helped the members see where our program was heading. The major topics of discussion were dress codes, appearance, interviews, and personal responsibility. Garry was able to fill them in on his vision for soft skill enhancement and they seemed genuinely pleased.

Advisory Board Meeting for PT in Tulsa

It is about a half hour away from our Program Advisory Board meeting here at Platt College Tulsa. I am thankful that our Director Stephanie Thrasher understands the nature of the pharmacies in Tulsa. She allows us to have the meeting when the majority of pharmacists can make the meeting. The noontime hours for pharmacists are their busiest and we would have poorly attended meetings in the past. We are looking forward to the members ideas in an effort to properly guide the program into the future. I know they are going to suggest heavy concentration on people skills and customer service. In the past they have mentioned alot about personal responsibility and simply the employee "showing up". We can never emphasize that too much. Employers want to know that you care before they care what you know.

November 1rst at Platt College Tulsa

Today is November 1rst and the second day of the block for the majority of the Pharmacy Technician students. We had a good start yesterday and are looking forward to working with the new future C.Ph.T.'s. Since the new students were in orientation all day, today will be the first real day in the pharmacy program. I had the opportunity to listen to a portion of the orientation yesterday and was very impressed with Mr. Garry Hemphill's welcome and words about soft skills and how we would like to cultivate them. He has such insight into marketability.

Costume Contest

Platt College in Tulsa had 11 people in costumes in the contest. Although they were all good, the 1rst place winner was....drum roll....wait for it...wait for it....Ms. Monica Skrzypczac going as Chef Hermann! Second place went to yours truly as King Henry's Royal Falconer. Platt College's Halloween party was quite a success with hot dogs, chili, chips, cookies, and beverages.

Second Place Entry at Platt Tulsa

This is Pharmacy's entry...

Winning Entry...MLT

Congrats to Medical Lab on Door Contest

First place in the door decorating contest went to Medical Laboratory Program in their first attempt at Platt College. Their winning entry was a crime scene depicting various disease states and the organisms that cause them. Second place went to the Pharmacy Technician Program with their display with the theme that drug abuse sucks. I will post a picture of the winning doors in a bit.

Hurray for Ms. Skrzypczac and Ms. Thrasher

One of the best costumes of the day, in my humble opinion, is Ms. Monica Skrzypczac and Platt College Director Ms. Stephanie Thrasher. Monica is dressed as Chef Herman of the Culinary Program and Stephanie is dressed as one of her students. Incredible creativity.

Costume Contest

Since I am the only one in costume in my class, I win the Pharmacy Technician Program Costume Contest by default. Kristi, Block One instructor, did come as a police officer. She did not have a gun on though. We are a drug/weapons free campus.

Another Opportunity...

Today begins the new block of instruction and the last for the year 2011. This marks another opportunity for us to do what we do best...provide sound and solid beginnings for a new career for those bold enough to grasp it. This year has been a year of change and challenge in the Pharmacy Technician Program here and OKC and Lawton as well. We saw an incredible partnership with our sister campuses and forged out the 2012 future curriculum. We are confident we are on solid ground and look forward to the coming year.

Weekend Upon Us

It has been a great week in the Pharmacy Technician Program in Tulsa and we hope all of Platt College a great weekend as well. Monday starts a new block and the P.T. program has new students as well. Take care all and God willing, see you Monday.

Halloween Door Contest

I have to admit the PT students in Tulsa have pulled off an incredible door display. Not only is it spooky and scarey, it is also educational. Pictures on Monday after the judging so as to not stack the deck.

Monday Dress Up Day for Halloween

Just a preview of what I will be for Halloween. I think as a stretch I should go as King Henry the VIII's royal falconer...

Friday and So Much More...

This is the last day of the Block. This is the Bell Ringing ceremony for 3 of our Pharmacy Technician students in Tulsa. This is the last day of finals for the junior class. This is the day the 3 going on internship find out where they are going to practice pharmacy in a real setting for the next 210 hours. This will be an incredible day because I chose my mood.

Thanks to Tulsa Dental Program

A big thanks goes to the incredible Dental Program in Tulsa for helping the Pharmacy Technician Program with vampire fangs to enhance the door in the door decorating contest. Should PT win the contest, we will owe a large debt to the great Dental Program.

Finals Week Almost Over

Remember when finals week finally arrived? All the last minute studying (cramming) and staying up all night drinking pots of coffee or gallons of Mountain Dew. I think Platt College students are way more prepared than I was for finals. Grades are great and much has been accomplished.

Richard Bird, C.Ph.T., Platt College Tulsa

A hearty congratulations to Richard Bird for passing his National Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination yesterday! We all at Platt College knew he would pass it. He said that everything on the examination is covered in class and will find out his numerical scores in 3 weeks. Knowing Richard, he will probably go to the DMV and change his driver's license to denote his new official title. I truly believe these will be the first of many initials he will be adding to his name in the future. His passing of this examination puts Platt College Pharmacy Program at 100% pass rate for this entire year.

Answer to Yesterday

I actually had one person, a former student now graduate, read the blog and answer the Math Question Of The Day yesterday. The answer is 259.5 milliliters of the 37% solution. This is just one type of question found on the National Pharmacy Technician Examination.

Today's MQOTD is what is the centrigrade temperature for 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit.

Monday It Starts All Over Again

Oct 31rst will be the first day of a new career for all of the students starting class. Monday for some means the beginning of something meaningful. Students in Block 1 of the Pharmacy Technician Program will be going into Block 4. This is the time for students to concentrate on learning the trade/generic names of drugs and their uses. We will also be focusing on the beginnings of sterile products. I personally love this time in the program because it is what separates us from the other medical occupations. Still not too late to become part of this program as well as the other programs that Platt College teaches. Call 918-663-9000 to find a career, not just a job.

Math Problem of the Day

A former student suggested that I put a math problem every day to stimulate the reading of my blogs...so here is the MPOTD. How many milliliters of a 37% solution is needed to make a quart of 10% solution? Answer will be posted tomorrow.

3 Days Left

Friday is the last day of class for this block of instruction and for 3 of our Pharmacy Technician students in the Tulsa Platt College. Final examinations are being completed and it is evident that much was learned. Today, one of the three students will be taking his National Pharmacy Technician Examination and we know he will do well and will be a C.Ph.T. by 4pm. He is a gifted student and has an astounding grasp of the medical world. It is clear he has a calling for increased knowledge.

Another Big Thanks To Culinary in Tulsa

Tulsa Culinary Program outdid themselves yesterday. At noon the Pharmacy Technician Program got a surprise in honor of National Pharmacy Technician Day. Chefs from Culinary brought over two chocolate pies and one butterscotch pie with dinner rolls and a huge pan of chicken alfredo lasagne. This was expecially incredible because of my bizarre food allergies. Students were also presented with a small bag of gifts including highlighters, a calculator, mechanical pencils, and 3x5 cards for notes. All in all, the P.T. Program had an incredible day!

National Pharmacy Technician Day

" In honor of National Pharmacy Technician Day, we recognize the hard work and dedication of pharmacy technicians who support pharmacists in the delivery of safe and effective patient care". The previous statement was made by the executive director of the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board, Melissa Murer-Corigan. She further stated that the PTCB would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to the over 400,000 Certified Pharmacy Technicians (CPhTs) serving in community, health-system, and federal pharmacy settings across the country. We at Platt College join her in her sentiments. Platt College pharmacy technicians become certified during or after their internships and are permitted to put the initials C.Ph.T. after their names signifying they are the best of the pharmacy technicians in the world.

Speaking of Addictions...

Have I mentioned on this blog just how much the Pharmacy Technician Program students and instructors LOVE the products from the Culinary Program? They have prepared a surprise for the PT Program due to the fact that it is National Pharmacy Technician Day! A great big thank-you to your staff and students!

Addictions...

Pharmacy Technician students have realized that most addictions are more mental than physical. Thanks to our librarian Alex Gates, we have the video series to confirm the revelations.

Thanks To Mr. Hemphill

The Pharmacy Technician Program students would like to officially thank Mr. Garry Hemphill for his weekly soft-skills focus that he provides in all classes. Today the focus was on who controls you. He mentioned that we all have buttons that others might push but the ultimate controller of those buttons is ourselves. Thank you Garry...

Video of Last Tulsa Graduation

I am still attempting to post video of Tulsa Platt College's last graduation ceremony. I was born before the Smith Corona typewriter so technology is still rather new to me. By the way, you can find Smith Corona in the Museum of Natural History.

Finals Week

This is the last week of the block. Students in the Pharmacy Technician Program in Tulsa are preparing for their final examinations. Some are going on internship and others will be going on to Block 4. This is the block that prepares students to do intravenous compounding. Students tend to love this portion due to the hands-on nature of the subject. Friday will be the "bell ringing" ceremony for 3 of our students and they are looking forward to internship and getting that all important job. New classes begin next Monday already and it appears we have a good size class coming in.

One Student To Take PTCE

The PT Program in Tulsa has one student that is taking the Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination on Wednesday at 2pm. He feels apprehensive but I am totally confident in him and his knowledge. He is a wizard on trade/generic names and uses and is very proficient in math skills. I will be reviewing a few things with him on Monday and Tuesday to allay his fears. Should Richard read my blog, he will know we have all the confidence in him.

TTSAL

The PT students in Tulsa started the TTSAL (Think Twice Save A Life) Program. This program was discovered by our incredible PT instructor in OKC Diane Copeland. In all honesty, I was not thrilled with this program at first but was willing to "try it on for size". I now love teaching this program, in spite of the fact that it was intended for pharmacists. This is a novel approach to patient safety and stresses the 12 patient safety goals instituted by the Joint Commission on Heath Care Organization.

Friday Again in Tulsa

It is truly Friday again in Tulsa (and other cities) and the weather is indeed cooler. Pharmacy students are preparing to decorate their door for the Halloween contest and are looking forward to the holiday season. This is normally my favorite part of the year also. The Christmas break will be busy for many of the programs in that we will be writing much of next year's schedule and lesson plans. This should prove to be an exciting time.

Medical Dosage Problems

Students in the junior class learned the goesinta method of dosing today. They were told to put the dose wanted on the top of an equation and what we stock on the bottom of the equation. Then the bottom number goesinta the top. They didn't laugh either.

Finally...

Pharmacy Technician students in Tulsa are now reading the blogs. I have learned that they have to be challenged to read them. I think I might put assignments on them now. Just kidding about that one though.

A New Way

I discovered a new approach to getting my students to read the Pharmacy Technician blog...I tell them just enough to be curious about it and then tell them the rest is on the blog. The PT Student of the Month has not yet read the previous blog and therefore does not know. How devious can one instructor get?

400% Increase...

USA Today reported that antidepressant use has skyrocketed 400% in the last two decades. They cite the struggling economy, the record number of layoffs, home foreclosures, and ad campaigns waged by pharmaceutical companies extolling the benefits of such drugs. Imagine having a career that is in need and actually has great potential for growth. Platt College has programs that fit that growing need. Not too late to enroll and get some security in stressful times. Check us out today! Tulsa Platt College number is 918-663-9000. Classes begin again October 31.

The Best Part of Waking Up...

Got two calls this week from former students (now graduates) saying how much they love their job. Instructors live for these kinds of moments. I never wanted to become an instructor and the United States Army decided this was for me. I protested a bit saying I would not be a good instructor but I chose my attitude and here I am. I am offended by the saying that those that can do and those that can't teach. If you ever feel that you can't, ask those that you have changed their lives and see if you can do.

Pharmacy Student of the Month

Congratulations to Crystal Phillips on her selection for Pharmacy Technician Student of the Month! Crystal is one of the three students about to start her internship. She has been a delight to have in class and I am certain her intern site will feel the same.

Almost Over...

It is hard to believe that this block of instruction is almost over. I will be losing three of this class to internship and I always have mixed thoughts about this. Firsthand, I know they are totally ready to prove to the pharmacy world that they are ready for the next step. But I know there is so much more for them to learn and only internship at a real pharmacy can accomplish this. Secondly, I would love to spend even more time with them and share even more of the 39 years of pharmacy that I have been blessed to observe. Either way, we wish them the best and God speed.

Blood Pressure Readings

Today, last hour, students from the Medical Assisting Program came into the Pharmacy Technician Program and took the blood pressures of all of the students. My class loved that they did that so they asked what they could do for the MA students. This stumped me for a bit since everything pharmacy technicians do is under the direct supervision of a pharmacist, I could think of nothing in the pharmaceutical field. We might have to settle on cookies. Any ideas?

Platt Tulsa Community Support

The instructors from Platt Tulsa "performed" for the students of Lynnwood Elementary in fine fashion. P.T. instructor Kristi Walsh and M.A. Coordinator Heather Foster were the human perches for a number of rescued birds of prey from the Royal Gauntlet rescue center in Coweta. Students and teachers said they had a great time and learned about conservation, ecology, and raptor biology. Of course, this was at a 3rd grade level.

Break Time...PT Tulsa

Have you ever had students refuse to take their allotted break because they love what they are learning? Just sayin...

Platt Raptors...

The Pharmacy Program, Dental Program, and Medical Assisting Program had guests today. Rescued birds of prey of the Royal Gauntlet Birds of Prey organization brought in an Eurasian eagle-owl, a great horned owl, a screech owl, a Harris' hawk, and an American kestrel. These are birds that have been rescued and will be released back into the wild if at all possible. Later, the birds and instructors Bob Aanonsen, Kristi Walsh, and Heather Foster will be presenting the birds to a third grade class at Lynwood Elementary School in Broken Arrow. This is an excellent opportunity to talk about Platt College. It's never too soon to get the youth thinking.

Penny War Champs

AM Dental are the penny war champions of the world, or at least Platt Tulsa. The class put in over $60.00 worth of loose change for Juvenile Diabetes. The class celebrated with a pizza party for their efforts.

It's Fall Finally

My favorite time of the year is the fall. The weather is considerably cooler today and we are expecting frost sometime soon. Students feel the difference also. The Pharmacy Program has 3 students that will begin their internships on October 31rst and are getting excited and apprehensive at the same time. It is difficult for them to know they have had the very best training there is. Our students are ready to hit the floor running and employers are expecting just that. As much as our students know, the employers want to "know that they care before they care what they know". Being there is always the first step to doing a great job. Our students are challenged daily to choose their attitude in class and we are confident it will continue on the internship and ultimately on the job.

Interpretation

Students in the Pharmacy Technician class in Tulsa had their first test on interpretation of professional information. It is amazing how many students have said that they prefer the cold, hard facts in learning better than the researching of these facts. I am often thankful that there is a Doctor of Pharmacy in every Oklahoma pharmacy to evaluate professional information.

Starting that new Career

On Thursday October 15 the Platt Tulsa Dental Department had 11 students to graduate and recieve their pins. Our department is pleased to say out of those 11 students 7 have jobs in Dental offices. We are also proud to have one student that had 100% attendance.

4,400 in Oklahoma

The website for the Oklahoma State Board of Pharmacy states that there are 4,400 permitted pharmacy technicians in the State of Oklahoma. I would love to know how many of those 4,400 are nationally certified. What will this mean when the state goes certification mandatory? I am thankful that we have our incredible OKC coordinator/instructor Diane Copeland helping guide the course of Oklahoma pharmacy. Thank you Diane!

Continuing Education At A Local Pharmacy

Platt Tulsa instructor Kristy Walsh spent the day Saturday at a local pharmacy sharpening her skills with insurance processing, making sure she was current on all new insurance information. Since we are a competency based school, we want to make absolutely sure we are on the cutting edge of the pharmacy occupation. Pharmacy Technician Program coordinator, Bob Aanonsen, does the same thing with taking the PTCE (Pharmacy Technician Certification Examination) every 6 months-1 year.

Lets Try That Again...

Here is a picture from the graduation address...

A Couple Pics from Graduation

Until I can get the video up, here are a couple pictures from last Thursday's Platt College Tulsa graduation.

Two Weeks Left

It is hard to believe that there are only two weeks left in the "block". The Pharmacy Technician Program has accomplished monumental tasks in many areas. Together with OKC and Lawton we have managed to streamline our curriculum for next year. Our students have had practice national examinations and are preparing for finals next week. With the help of Mr. Alex Gates, I hope to post some video from last weeks's graduation.

P.T. Students Become Doctors

Students in the Pharmacy Technician Program were made doctors for a short period of time. The assignment given was to write 23 prescriptions covering a variety of ills. They are completing this task with much dedication and want to be technically accurate in the drugs, dosages, and prescription writing. This will enhance their ability to read and assist in the filling of "real" prescriptions.

Incredible Ceremony in Tulsa

I love to see happy tears! They were more than flowing last night in what might have been the best graduation in years. In spite of it being a new venue and some minor challenges it went off especially well. Thanks go to Director Stephanie Thrasher and her leadership. She has a unique perspective on the faculty and staff and challenges them to perform at their best. I will try soon to post some video of the opening comments, invocation, song, introductions, and graduation address.

Todays going to be one of the greatest days of my life!

Todays going to be one of the greatest days of my life! This is a quote from Ms. Tabitha Barnes, Pharmacy Technician graduate about tonight's graduation ceremony. I found this on the Facebook page with about 15 comments telling her congratulations. I love the feeling I get when I read things like this. She knows that her future is sound and secure because of her attendance at Platt College!

Graduation Tonight for Platt Tulsa

Tonight will be the walk across the stage ceremony for the graduates of Platt College. This will occur at 6:30pm at the Green Country Event Center on 31rst street near Garnett. I will be singing a song and delivering the graduation address. I love graduations and seeing the successes that Platt College inspired.

Why No Blog Yesterday?

I wonder if anyone noticed that the P.T. Program blog was mysteriously silent yesterday. I went to OKC to visit with other program coordinators and discuss the future of our individual programs and talk about assessments. The meeting was very productive and we are proud of the work we have done to prepare for next year. All are excited about the improvements we have made to the programs and we know Platt College will continue to be the best education a student can get.

Why Do Some Learn Faster?

Another great article from Librarian Alex Gates about learning rates...love the stuff he finds. Thanks Alex. This probably should be mandatory reading for all instructors.
http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2011/10/why-do-some-people-learn-faster-2/

The Pharmacy Technician Program needs no disclaimer on the above mentioned article.

Graduation for Platt Tulsa on Thursday

This Thursday is the walk across the stage graduation ceremony for the Tulsa campus of Platt College. I will again have the honor of playing a song and delivering the graduation address. My favorite speech is comparing the Platt College students to peanuts. You will have to come to a graduation to hear more. I also talk about the power of positive reinforcement. I use a live prop for that one though. This ceremony is very important to many of our students. Many begin the programs thinking they can't do the work and succeed beyond their dreams. This will be about the 30th graduation ceremony I attend at Platt College and who knows how many more I will be privileged to attend.

This Week in P.T. Tulsa

Students in the Pharmacy Technician Program in Tulsa will have an exciting week...temperature conversions, insurance, digestive system anatomy, and the Think Twice-Save a Life program. I am often amazed about how much we do in a week. And that is just the senior class. Juniors have a metric ton of math to do. Having the best pharmacy technician program in the state comes with many responsibilities. Our programs in Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and Lawton are up to the task! Classes are now forming for October 31rst in Tulsa. Give Platt College a call and get into a career, not just a job! 918-663-9000.

Pharmacy Technician Students Garb Up for IV Practice

Left to right:  Robert Cryer and Jered Shepard

Pictured from left:  David McLean, Shanell Woods, Heather Cooper,
Crystal Munoz, Ashley Simmons, Crystal Pennington

Pharmacy Techncian students practiced aseptic technique today as they compounded
 mock sterile IV preparations.  I think they look like pros already, don't you?

Tailored Medications for Only YOU

Our great librarian, Alex Gates, came up with another incredible site that speaks of genome sequencing which has drug manufacturers interested. Imagine having medications structured so that they are specifically for you based on your genetic make up. Even if this becomes the way of the future, they will still need pharmacy technicians to assist in dispensing these medications. I love my field!

http://www.medicalprogresstoday.com/spotlight/2011/09/the-fda-and-personal-medicine.php

More Hired!

It was an incredible day for the Pharmacy Technician Program in Tulsa yesterday. Not only did we get to visit the pharmacy museum in Guthrie, but stopped off at Pop's on the way back for a quick lunch. Then found out that our intern Zoua Yang was offered a job midway through her internship at a local hospital. Then found out that Sherry Yang got hired at a compounding pharmacy in Tulsa. I have always felt that if you want a job there is one there for you. Our graduates and students continue to excel and lead the way!

Field Trip...PT in Tulsa

I saw on my good friend's (and OKC counterpart) blog, Diane, where she had taken her class to the incredible pharmacy museum in Guthrie recently. Today, I get to take Platt College Tulsa's 15 students to visit their Oklahoma heritage. This is always a special trip for us. This should serve as an excellent way for the new students to get to know their senior class.

Yahoo Ranks Pharmacy Technican 3rd Hottest Career Field

An article posted today on Yahoo ranks the "Hottest Career Fields" with the Pharmacy Technician career listed as the #3 hottest career field!  The role of  the Pharmacy Technician is constantly evolving and the demand for educated, trained Pharmacy Technicians continues to increase.  In the Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition the Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects an increase in employment of Pharmacy Technicians by 31 percent from 2008-2018.  Now that's job security!  Platt College will help prepare you for the Pharmacy Technician National Certification Exam which earns you the designation of CPhT (Certified Pharmacy Technician).  Platt also offers job placement assistance upon completion of the program. 

Read more about the Department of Labor's employment projections for Pharmacy Technicians at the  Bureau of Labor and Statistics - Pharmacy Technicians, then call Platt College at (405) 946-7799 to begin training for your new career as part of the most trusted profession!  See you in class.....

Pharmacy Technician students recently visited the Oklahoma Frontier DrugStore Museum

in Guthrie where they learned more about the history of medicine as well as

the practice of pharmacy here in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma Frontier DrugStore Museum



Outside the museum, students also walked through the Apothecary Garden which contains many

of the plants and herbs from which drugs are still derived today.



(left to right:  Thalia Monday-Zamora, Rachel Hood, Jill Hassaj, Bridgette Chisum, Judy Martin, Luis Muniz)



Thalia Monday-Zamora at the Remedies counter.

Luis Muniz at the soda fountain.







Did anyone tell Luis it's not a working soda fountain?



Bridgette and Judy looking at souveniers. 





    Judy Martin, Pharmacy Technician student, was offered a position with LegendCare Pharmacy in Norman!!  LegendCare recently completed construction and moved into their brand new building in September. Judy began her externship at LegendCare on September 12th....just in time to help empty lots of boxes and she has been very busy helping set up the pharmacy.  Judy was primarily responsible for organizing most of the chemicals and equipment seen here in the compounding room.  Congratulations, Judy! 

LegendCare Pharmacy - Norman, Oklahoma

Emergency!!! Emergency!!!

WOW!!!! Did hear about the all the broken arms that happened this week at Platt North??? What are they doing to their students? And then, as I was walking down the hall I saw about 10 of them bandaged up! What's really going on? I'm thinking that there has to be some kind of emergency situations going on that they needed to be attended to. Fortunately, my AWESOMELY AMAZING ENERGETIC lab instructor Richard Paulk was right where he needed to be during all the chaos. It has been a fascinating week.....and yet, you're STILL sitting there reading this when you could be a part of all this instead! We still have seats available and admission reps standing by. You could be having all this fun too. So go ahead, pick up the phone and call....(405)749-2433.

Keep your eyes out for next weeks update......it's gonna be the best of all.

Until next time world......

Miss. Whitson

Learning and Thinking

I have been a pharmacy technician instructor since 1981 and I love my job. I have found that it is harder to teach critical thinking skills than memorization skills. I have found that most of my students love the memorization portion of our program and are mostly dreading the critical thinking skills. Why is that? Asking a student "what would you do" seems to terrify. Our students are very conscious of patient safety but almost afraid to think "outside of the box". Any comments?

Tulsa P.T. Quote of the Day

One of our pharmacy students asked today why it was so hard to memorize the brand and generic names of drugs. She said "It's like learning a new language". This is totally true but not just for pharmacy. In almost all occupations there are peculiarities and words/phrases specific to that job. It just seems there are more in pharmacy but I know she will do well. She has the drive and motivation to succeed!

My Turn Tonight

Tonight is the first time this year I will be heading to the Tulsa Fair. I will be at the Platt College booth and I hope to have a chance to talk about all the great programs that Platt College offers. In January, I will have 10 years at Platt and I believe in the mission. I have seen many and great success stories and I hope to see them continue. I will be there from 6pm to 10pm and I hope it is a busy night.

Another Wake-Up Drug

My good friend and Platt College's incredible librarian Alex Gates provided me with another interesting link with drugs in it. I brought up the link and wondered if it were in our best interest to blog about it. I think it is good to develop a second-sence about these things but I will leave it up to the reader to decide such things.

http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/do-sleepy-shift-workers-need-cephalons-pickmeup-pill-08112011.html

Disclaimer: The Tulsa Pharmacy Technician Program neither endorses nor denies the claims of anything in the above link.

Pharmacy Tech Students taking BP?

It's always fun to teach a task that was learned 39 years ago. I am talking about taking blood pressure. When I learned to do this, we actually used a device that had mercury (Hg) in it. We learned that 120 over 80 millimeters of mercury was desireable. Now when we teach it, we must explain why it is/was called mm of Hg. Students seem to love the fact that I am so old I've "lived" the changes in drugs and devices.

Busy in the Dental Department

Our dental department welcomes and is excited to have 7 new dental assistant students that started last week. The PM class recently had 4 students that compleded and recieved their CPR certifation. 8 students from both the AM and PM class attended the radiation safety course, and proud to say they all passed.

Day 6 of Tulsa State Fair

Tulsa State Fair opened last Thursday and some say the attendance will break records. Platt College and Oklahoma Health Academy is well represented! The booth is in the lower level of the Quick Trip Center near the stairs. There seems to be much interest in our programs and we hope that interest will generate more students. Pharmacy instructor Kristi Walsh was there over the weekend and answered many questions about all of the programs at Platt and OHA. She will also be at fair to help with her family's horses during the fair. I will be there to answer questions and talk to the people tomorrow evening at 6pm to 10pm. I hope to meet many of you reading this blog and to show my excitement for Platt College and OHA and their programs.

Re-organization of Pharmacy in Tulsa

Last Friday, with the help of the Medical Assisting students, the mock pharmacy in the Tulsa campus was "re-organized". Empty stock bottles were placed everywhere and it did indeed resemble a storm of sorts. Instructor Kristi Walsh was astounded by the amount of team-work that was displayed as all students endeavored to put it back properly. It also served as an excellent ice-breaker between established students and our newest students. We just love when a plan comes together so well and provides unplanned benefits!

Who Wants Cheaper Drugs?

I might want to rephrase that. For convenient, affordable PRESCRIPTION DRUGS, you might want to use a site given to me by our incredible librarian, Alex Gates. This is a website that claims you can save between 20-80 percent even if you have insurance. That website is http://www.goodrx.com/

Disclaimer: The Pharmacy Technician Program neither endorses not denies the claims made in the aforementioned website. Basically, try it and see if it helps. Thanks again Mr. Gates.