When preparing for the Knowledge Assessment of Pharmaceutical Sciences (KAPS) Exam, selecting the right study materials is crucial. The books you choose should provide comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date information that aligns with the Australian pharmacy standards. In this post, we’ll explore the top books recommended for those studying to pass the KAPS Exam.
Australian Medicines Handbook (AMH)
The Australian Medicines Handbook, also known as the AMH, is an essential resource for anyone preparing for the KAPS Exam. This text provides a thorough overview of therapeutics and is often viewed as the pharmacist’s bible in Australia. It includes details about drug selection, usage, adverse effects, interactions, and doses. By studying this book, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of how different medications are used in Australian pharmacy practice, preparing you well for the exam.
Australian Pharmaceutical Formulary and Handbook (APF)
Another invaluable text is the Australian Pharmaceutical Formulary and Handbook (APF). This book is a comprehensive guide to contemporary pharmacy practice in Australia. It includes detailed information on compounding techniques, over-the-counter consultations, professional pharmacy services, and ethical and legal responsibilities. Studying the APF will give you insights into professional pharmacy practice, equipping you with the knowledge to answer questions about pharmacy procedures and ethics in the KAPS Exam.
Therapeutic Guidelines
The Therapeutic Guidelines series is a collection of 15 books providing clear and concise guidelines on the treatment of an extensive array of diseases and conditions. These books are widely used in Australia by health professionals, and for good reason – they provide evidence-based, peer-reviewed, and up-to-date therapeutic information. While studying all 15 books may not be feasible, it’s wise to focus on the most relevant ones, such as ‘Antibiotic,’ ‘Cardiovascular,’ ‘Endocrinology,’ and ‘Psychotropic.’
Martindale: The Complete Drug Reference
The Martindale is an internationally recognized reference book providing detailed and authoritative information on drugs and medicines used globally. It offers monographs on drugs both in use and investigational drugs. While this reference book is not Australia-specific, it is an excellent supplement to the AMH and can provide additional insights into pharmaceutical chemistry and pharmaceutics.
Essentials of Law and Ethics for Pharmacy Technicians
While this book is aimed at pharmacy technicians, it can be useful for pharmacists preparing for the KAPS Exam as it provides a comprehensive overview of pharmacy law and ethics, which is a significant component of the exam. The book covers topics such as prescription and non-prescription drugs, controlled substances, pharmacy liability, patient confidentiality and privacy, and more.
British National Formulary (BNF)
The BNF is a UK-based drug reference book that is used globally. It’s known for its practical guidance on prescribing, dispensing, and administering medicines. While it does not reflect Australian practice directly, the BNF can provide valuable supplementary information, particularly when used in conjunction with Australian-focused resources.
Rang & Dale’s Pharmacology
‘Rang & Dale’s Pharmacology’ is an excellent resource for understanding the principles of pharmacology. It provides a clear and accessible overview of the subject, covering the spectrum from molecular pharmacology to clinical application. This book can be particularly useful in preparing for Paper 2 of the KAPS Exam, which deals with pharmacology and pharmacotherapeutics.
In conclusion, preparing for the KAPS Exam requires careful selection of study materials to ensure the breadth and depth of the subject matter is covered. The above books are renowned for their comprehensive content and will undoubtedly prove to be invaluable resources in your journey to pass the KAPS Exam. However, always remember that book knowledge should be complemented with practice questions and real-world understanding. Best of luck with your studies and your pursuit of a successful pharmacy career in Australia!