INVESTIGATING THE FACTORS INFLUENCING JOB SATISFACTION, PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, AND MEDICATION SAFETY PRACTICES AMONG PHARMACY TECHNICIANS IN SAUDI ARABIAN HEALTHCARE SETTINGS

Abstract

Pharmacy technicians play a vital role in the healthcare system, supporting pharmacists in the safe and efficient delivery of medications. However, factors such as job satisfaction, professional development opportunities, and medication safety practices can significantly impact their performance and well-being. This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing job satisfaction, professional development, and medication safety practices among pharmacy technicians in Saudi Arabian healthcare settings. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 500 pharmacy technicians working in hospitals and community pharmacies across the country. Job satisfaction was measured using the Job Satisfaction Survey (JSS), while professional development and medication safety practices were assessed using researcher-developed questionnaires. The findings revealed that autonomy, interpersonal relationships, and workload were significant predictors of job satisfaction (R² = 0.48, F(3, 496) = 152.67, p < 0.001). Access to continuing education and supportive management were identified as key factors influencing professional development (R² = 0.39, F(2, 497) = 158.21, p < 0.001). Medication safety practices were significantly associated with the availability of technology, staff training, and error reporting systems (R² = 0.42, F(3, 496) = 119.45, p < 0.001). The study highlights the need for healthcare organizations to prioritize strategies that enhance job satisfaction, provide professional development opportunities, and promote medication safety practices among pharmacy technicians, ultimately improving patient care quality and medication safety.

Keywords: pharmacy technicians, job satisfaction, professional development, medication safety, healthcare settings, Saudi Arabia