Certified Medication Aide

The Certified Medication Aide (CMA) is responsible for administering prescribed medications to residents in a long-term care facility in accordance with physician orders, state regulations, and facility policies. The CMA supports residents' health, safety, and well-being by ensuring accurate medication administration, maintaining proper documentation, observing residents for adverse reactions, and reporting changes in condition to the licensed nurse.

• Administer prescribed medications to residents according to physician orders, medication administration records (MAR), and facility policies.
• Verify the correct resident, medication, dosage, route, and administration time.
• Review medication orders and report discrepancies to the supervising nurse.
• Document medications administered, refused, held, or omitted accurately in the MAR or electronic medication record.
• Monitor residents for medication side effects, allergic reactions, and changes in health status.
• Promptly report medication errors, adverse reactions, and changes in residents' conditions to the licensed nurse.
• Maintain medication carts, storage areas, and medication supplies in a clean, organized, and secure manner.
• Follow infection prevention, hand hygiene, and medication safety procedures.
• Assist residents with medication-related needs within the aide's authorized scope of practice.
• Communicate professionally with nurses, physicians, pharmacists, residents, and family members as appropriate.
• Protect residents' privacy, dignity, confidentiality, and rights.
• Follow facility policies, state regulations, and applicable federal long-term care requirements.
• Participate in staff training, continuing education, and quality assurance activities as required.

• Current medication aide certification or credential required by the applicable state.
• Completion of required medication aide training and competency assessments.
• Knowledge of medication administration procedures, medication documentation, and resident safety.
• Ability to follow written instructions, recognize potential medication problems, and communicate concerns promptly.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, reliability, and compassion.
• Ability to work effectively with residents and the interdisciplinary care team.

The CMA typically works in a nursing home, skilled nursing facility, or other licensed long-term care setting. The position may require day, evening, night, weekend, or holiday shifts.

Reports to the licensed nurse or designated supervisor in accordance with facility policy and state regulations.

To promote resident safety and quality of care by providing accurate, timely, and properly documented medication administration within the CMA's authorized scope of practice.