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If there’s one word to describe pharmacy work, it should be “moving.” Whether you’re on the retail floor or in a hospital setting, there’s always something to do — or somewhere to go — in your pharmacy.
We’ve discussed the inner workings of patient care and we love exploring its many layers, but let’s get physical. Pharmacy work has you moving from opening to closing, so make sure you’re good and ready.
Here’s how you can maintain your fitness within the hectic world of pharmacy work.
Whether you’re a clerk or a pharmacist, you’re wearing several hats throughout the day: patient care expert, customer service wizard, fill maestro, vaccination extraordinaire, etc.
If these titles had job descriptions, they’d have “Needs to be comfortable being on their feet for 8+ hours a day” at the top of the requirements section.
You’re always on the move in the pharmacy, so make sure you’re limbered up for the day ahead. Do some light stretching before putting that white coat on.
Think of it like an actual run: make sure your legs are loose and ready for the journey ahead. Going on a run without stretching makes the run an even more painful chore (because let’s face it: running is always painful).
The same applies to pharmacy work. All that walking and maneuvering becomes a legitimate workout after a while. As such, a workout regimen requires some warmup and cooldown. So give yourself a little warmup before your next shift. The difference is subtle but profound.
This goes beyond the ideas of formal wear or casual Fridays. Needless to say, you should formally dress yourself before clocking in for the day. Instead, let’s look into how your clothing can affect your pharmacy work.
Most pharmacists prefer the business casual route. Polos and button-downs are classic favorites, topped off by dress slacks or jeans.
Consider the comfort factor of your clothes. If you’re an easy sweater (who isn’t with this weather?), consider getting polos with sweat-wicking technology. Cotton and sweat are an unholy combination in any situation, especially in pharmacy work.
The discomfort can stifle your productivity, making you less mobile and quick to respond to urgent situations. Sweat-wicking clothing will make the heat a bit more bearable.
Then think about your pants. Get some slacks that are flexible yet fashionable. Pharmacy work requires versatility, flexibility (sometimes literally), and mobility, and your clothing choices will play a major role in that.
Lastly — and this is a favorite for this writer — let’s talk footwear. Function over fashion is the name of the game here, so leave your basketball sneakers for some well-cushioned runners. Get sneakers that are light, stable, and comfortable.
It’s best to get some muted-colored shoes so they can go with any color combination. However, if you’re a sneakerhead, you’re probably imagining various outfit ideas to go with your 15 pairs.
All in all, be mindful of what you wear to work. It could be the difference between a bad day and a great one.
As mentioned earlier, pharmacy work is a marathon, not a sprint. You’re burning calories as you’re helping your patients. Though it doesn’t compare to a hard workout or a trek through your neighborhood trail, you are expending a considerable amount of energy throughout the workday.
You’re already doing some pre-work stretching and wearing the appropriate clothes. If you’re looking and performing like an athlete, might as well go all the way: refuel like one.
Have a water bottle handy with you at all times. Most pharmacists have a designated or preferred workstation, so place your bottle there.
Hydration is an essential but overlooked part of general health. We all know drinking water is good for us, but it sometimes feels like we have more important things to do.
Make sure you’re hydrating throughout the workday. The U.S National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommend the following:
Think about what you’re eating as well. Pack a healthy lunch and avoid greasy foods to prevent feelings of sluggishness. Yogurt, granola bars, and fruit are productivity enhancers, giving you more energy to take on the day.
Sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. Stay hydrated and eat healthy to make your pharmacy work a breeze.
It’s all about making something out of nothing. Taking breaks is another overlooked aspect of pharmacy work, and it’s understandable why.
There’s no cruise control when it comes to pharmacy work. A steady workflow is often a 9 on the typical work scale. Another person’s extreme workflow is just another Tuesday for you.
Still, even the most grizzled pharmacy veteran needs some rest. Take intermittent breaks throughout the day. This can be tough if you’re the sole pharmacist that day but take one however you can.
Even a few, deep, and mindful breaths are enough to reset your central nervous system. Those deep breaths give you a second wind and an extra burst of energy to complete your tasks.
Also, spend your break time wisely. Pharmacy work affords a brief window of time where you can sit down and reset. That means no social media scrolling, answering emails, or other activities.
Open a book (if you can), take a seat, and let your body and mind reset itself. Before you know it, your pharmacy work productivity will shoot through the roof.
No two days are the same when it comes to pharmacy work. Every task requires your full attention, even though you’re expected to be at multiple places at once.
Pharmacy work is all about efficiency and consistency — just like a marathon. Drink some (actually, a lot of) water, pack a healthy lunch or snack, dress comfortably, and give yourself time to breathe.
In the world of pharmacy work, the journey is the reward, so make sure you’re at your patient-caring best on that journey.
