CMA

The Certified Medication Aide (CMA) is responsible for safely and accurately administering medications to residents under the direction and supervision of licensed nursing staff. The CMA provides compassionate, resident-centered care while following facility policies, physician orders, state regulations, and infection-control standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Administer medications to residents accurately and on schedule in accordance with physician orders and facility policies.
• Follow the Medication Administration Record (MAR) and physician/provider orders.
• Observe residents for medication effectiveness, adverse reactions, and changes in condition and promptly report concerns to the licensed nurse.
• Accurately document medication administration, refusals, omissions, and other required information in the medication administration record (MAR).
• Obtain and record vital signs or other measurements as directed.
• Assist residents with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, feeding, and mobility, as assigned.
• Follow proper infection-prevention and control procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality of resident information in accordance with HIPAA and facility policies.
• Communicate professionally with residents, families, nursing staff, physicians, and other members of the interdisciplinary team.
• Participate in shift report and communicate significant resident changes to the appropriate licensed nurse.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized medication area and properly secure medications.
• Follow facility procedures for controlled substances and medication storage.
• Complete required documentation accurately and in a timely manner.
• Respond appropriately to resident emergencies and follow facility emergency procedures.
• Promote resident dignity, independence, privacy, and quality of life.
• Perform other duties within the scope of the CMA's training, certification, and applicable state regulations.

Qualifications

• Current Certified Medication Aide/Medication Aide certification in the applicable state.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous experience in a skilled nursing, long-term care, assisted living, or healthcare setting preferred.
• Current CPR certification required according to facility policy.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to accurately follow medication orders and facility procedures.
• Ability to work effectively with elderly, medically complex, and/or cognitively impaired residents.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of medication administration principles and safety practices.
• Understanding of infection prevention and control procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Compassionate and respectful approach to resident care.
• Ability to recognize and report changes in resident condition.
• Ability to work cooperatively as part of a nursing team.
• Ability to remain calm and professional in stressful situations.
• Dependability, punctuality, and commitment to resident safety.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and reach throughout the workday.
• Ability to assist residents with mobility and transfers within the scope of training and facility policy.
• Ability to lift and/or move equipment and supplies as required.
• Ability to perform duties in a fast-paced healthcare environment.