What does a Medication Aide do?

Medication Aides typically work in long-term care facilities, such as assisted living and nursing homes. They may also work in hospitals, clinics, correctional facilities and other care centers.

Their main duty is to administer daily medications safely, which means ensuring the dosing and timing are correct. Medication Aides also document the doses in patients’ records and monitor them for side effects. Since Medication Aides are often Certified Nursing Assistants, they may handle some patient care tasks as needed.

Medication Aide skills and qualifications

A successful Medication Aide should have certain skills and qualifications before being hired. Some examples to list in your Med Aide job description include:

• Written and verbal communication skills

• Strong attention to detail

• First aid and CPR certification

• Knowledge of medical terminology and conditions

• Ability to prepare medication doses accurately

• Patient, calm demeanor

• Strong problem-solving skills

Medication Aide experience requirements

It’s common for a Certified Medication Aide job description to ask for previous experience in a similar role. Experience as a CNA could be helpful, especially if their duties included administering or monitoring medication. You might also consider general experience working in a long-term care facility or one that’s similar to yours.

Medication Aide education and training requirements

A Medication Aide’s education and training requirements vary by state. Some Medication Aides might begin with a CNA certification, which requires an approved CNA training program that lasts at least four to 12 weeks. They must then pass an exam to become a CNA.

The career path also requires completing a Medication Aide training program, which can take a few weeks to a few months. Graduates must then pass a written exam to become certified. Check your state’s requirements to determine what type of education and training a candidate should have.

You may also require more education requirements in your Medication Aide job description. For example, even if your state doesn’t require candidates to become CNAs first, you might prefer candidates who have completed the CNA program.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this Certified Medication Aide job description isn’t a match for your hiring needs, browse these similar positions:

• Certified Nursing Assistant

• Medical Assistant

• Home Health Aide

• Licensed Practical Nurse

Medication Aide job description FAQs

What is the difference between a Medication Aide and a Certified Nursing Assistant?

A Certified Nursing Assistant works in similar environments, typically long-term care facilities, and provides hands-on patient care. They often help with dressing, feeding, transferring and bathing residents. Medication Aides focus primarily on administering medication to the same patients. Many Medication Aides are also CNAs. As such, they might perform some typical CNA duties after completing their medication-related tasks.

Who supervises Medication Aides?

Medication Aides usually report to a Licensed Practical Nurse or Registered Nurse. They often work under the Nurse’s supervision. Each state sets its own regulations on who can administer medications and what type of supervision they need.

What qualities make a good Medication Aide?

A good Medication Aide has strong interpersonal skills and knows how to interact positively with residents and patients. The job might involve patients who resist taking their medications, so the candidate should have good negotiation skills.

They are also detail-oriented and understand the importance of accuracy when it comes to administering medications. Effective Medication Aides are flexible and work well with other team members. Part of the job includes responding to unexpected health reactions and emergencies, so they should be able to stay calm in those situations.

What should you look for in a Medication Aide resume?

Look for candidates with experience working in long-term care facilities and handling medication. You might prefer someone who has worked in a similar-sized facility with responsibilities that match your open position. The resume should also confirm the candidate is certified as a Medication Aide.