Pharmacist Advanced Training Immunization | Microcredentials On-Demand 19 credit hours

CEimpact is the first to offer an option for on-demand virtual assessment as part of their immunization training certificate course. This means the learner can complete the full certificate course by demonstrating their immunization technique one-on-one with a CEimpact trainer using a web-based meeting platform. Avoid costs associated with travel and time when you choose this option. This 20-hour training includes both a home-study component and a live, virtual assessment with a CEimpact trainer.

***If you practice in New York, Massachusetts, or New Mexico, please CLICK HERE. 

To obtain a certificate of completion, pharmacists must:
1. Complete Modules 1-8 of online course work (19 hours).
2. Successfully pass the 100 question online examination with a score of 70% or above.
3. Complete the online self-study evaluation.
4. Gather supplies needed for the virtual assessment.
5. Print the Trainee Documentation form.
6. Review document outlining what to expect for the virtual assessment.
7. Secure a healthcare buddy who is an immunizer to be present with you during your live, online assessment.
8. Schedule your live, virtual assessment.
9. Show satisfactory demonstration of ability to administer vaccines at the live, virtual assessment (1 hour).
10. Complete the online virtual assessment evaluation using the code provided during the live assessment.

Module 1: Immunology and Principles of Immunization (Self-Study)

1. Discuss the evolution of pharmacy-based immunization services in the United States.
2. Recognize the public health impact of expanding access to immunizations through pharmacy practice.
3. Explain foundational immunologic principles related to vaccine-induced protection.
4. Compare active and passive immunity in the context of immunization.
5. Define the key immunologic terms: antigen, immune response, antibody, and cell-mediated immunity.
6. Describe the core principles that guide vaccine development and administration.
7. Differentiate vaccine classifications, including live attenuated, inactivated, conjugate, polysaccharide, and recombinant vaccines.
8. Describe immunization principles across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, and adults.
9. Outline the current U.S. child and adolescent immunization schedule (birth through 18 years) and adult immunization schedule (19 years and older).
10. Distinguish between common precautions and contraindications to vaccination.  

Module 2: Preparing the Pharmacy to Provide Immunization Services (Self-Study)

1. Develop a plan to ensure proper vaccine storage and handling within the pharmacy.
2. Implement standardized procedures for safe vaccine handling and storage.
3. Contact the appropriate manufacturer resources when vaccine integrity concerns arise.
4. Educate pharmacy team members on best practices for vaccine storage and handling.
5. Establish processes to access reliable vaccine information resources.
6. Develop a recordkeeping system that complies with applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
7. Describe the purpose and use of immunization information systems.
8. Develop a screening process to identify children, adolescents, and adults in need of immunization.
9. Use Vaccine Information Statements as a required component of education for adult patients and for parents or guardians of children and adolescents.
10. Develop an exposure control plan addressing bloodborne pathogens and needlestick prevention.

Module 3: Vaccine Safety and Vaccine Adverse Events (Self-Study)

1. Report vaccine adverse events using the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS).
2. Describe the purpose and function of the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program.
3. Anticipate and manage common vaccine-related adverse events in children, adolescents, and adults.
4. Develop an emergency response plan for anaphylaxis following vaccine administration.
5. Communicate key vaccine safety principles, including vaccine development and monitoring processes.

Module 4: Vaccine-Preventable Diseases – Part 1 (Self-Study)

1. Discuss the epidemiology and pathophysiology of common vaccine-preventable diseases, including measles, hepatitis A and B, human papillomavirus, and meningococcal disease.
2. Utilize the current U.S. child and adolescent immunization schedule (birth through 18 years) and adult immunization schedule (19 years and older).
3. Discuss current national immunization recommendations.
4. Recommend appropriate vaccines for children, adolescents, and adults based on age, risk factors, and immunization history.
5. Identify vaccines currently available in the United States for the prevention of infectious diseases.

Module 5: Vaccine-Preventable Diseases – Part 2 (Self-Study)

1. Discuss the epidemiology and pathophysiology of common vaccine-preventable diseases, including influenza, pneumococcal disease, COVID-19, RSV, and tetanus.
2. Recommend immunizations for children, adolescents, and adults with chronic medical conditions, including HIV, diabetes, and chronic liver disease.
3. Develop an immunization strategy for pregnant patients that includes appropriate vaccine recommendations, screening considerations, and strategies to address vaccine hesitancy.
4. Discuss contraindications and precautions for vaccination in immunocompromised patients.
5. Make appropriate immunization recommendations for immunocompromised patients.

Module 6: Establishing a Pharmacy-Based Immunization Program (Self-Study)

1. List state-specific legal requirements for immunization delivery to children, adolescents, and adults by pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.
2. Develop a plan to implement immunization services for children, adolescents, and adults within the pharmacy setting.
3. Describe reimbursement pathways for pharmacy-based immunization services.
4. Identify required documentation, forms, and supplies for pharmacist-led vaccine administration.
5. Discuss operational considerations, including scheduling and workflow, that affect the delivery of immunization services.

Module 7: Case Discussion and Administration Technique (Self-Study)

1. Recommend immunizations for children, adolescents, and adults based on age, medical conditions, and lifestyle factors.
2. Implement immunization recommendations through structured patient case scenarios.
3. Prepare vaccines for administration according to manufacturer instructions.
4. Determine the appropriate anatomic site and needle size based on the vaccine type and the patient’s age.
5. Describe the step-by-step process for safe vaccine administration, including patient preparation and infection control.
6. Explain appropriate techniques for intranasal and jet-injector vaccine administration.

Module 8: Immunization Administration (Self-Study)

1. Describe appropriate sites, routes of administration, and supplies for vaccines in children, adolescents, and adults.
2. Review patient screening and immunization history techniques to identify immunization needs.
3. Describe positioning strategies for children, adolescents, and adults to reduce injury risk during and after vaccine administration.
4. Discuss proper techniques for subcutaneous and intramuscular vaccine administration.
5. Explain appropriate intranasal and jet injector administration techniques.
6. Provide counseling on post-vaccination care and expected responses. 

Module 9: Immunization Injection Technique Assessment (Live, Virtual)

This module requires you to attend a live, virtual session where you will demonstrate proper injection technique on your healthcare buddy. Your healthcare buddy must attend the live session with you. 

If your healthcare buddy is a pharmacist, you will be required to upload a copy of their immunization administration certificate; If your healthcare buddy is another healthcare provider (i.e. MD, DO, PA, NP, RN, LPN, etc.) who is an immunizer, you will be required to enter their credentials, practice state, and license number.

ACPE Certificate Information

Certificate Title: Immunization Administration Training for Pharmacists – Certificate
Certificate Program Number (CPN): 0107-25-002-CP
Activity Length: 20 hours / 2.0 CEU
UANs: 

0107-0000-25-143-H06-P
Immunization Administration Training for Pharmacists
19 Hours / 1.9 CEU

0107-0000-25-144-L06-P
Immunization Injection Technique Assessment
1 Hour / 0.1 CEU

State Requirements

State requirements for pharmacist and technician immunization training and administration vary. Make sure to review your State Board of Pharmacy requirements and consult appropriate business professionals before making any important decisions for your pharmacy.

Before administering immunizations, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians must comply with all requirements established by their state Board of Pharmacy regarding technician immunizers. These requirements may include obtaining and maintaining certification in Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) for healthcare providers through the American Heart Association or the Red Cross.

CEimpact has partnered with ProCPR to provide a virtual CPR certification option. Important: Before enrolling, you must verify that this training satisfies your state board’s requirements. Many states mandate a live, hands-on CPR skills assessment, which this virtual program does not include. If your state requires such an assessment, you will need to complete a live training course locally.

Faculty

Elizabeth Skoy, PharmD

Disclosures:

Miranda Wilhelm and Elizabeth Skoy have no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.

Miranda Wilhelm, PharmD

Disclosures:

Miranda Wilhelm and Elizabeth Skoy have no relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.

Course Details