What does a Medication Aide do?
Published 3 min read
A medication aide is a person who helps administer medication to patients. They may work in a hospital, nursing home, or other healthcare facility. Medication aides are responsible for ensuring that patients take their medication as prescribed by their doctor. They may also be responsible for keeping track of the patient's medication schedule and keeping the patient's medical records up to date.
Medication Aide job duties include:
- Administer prescribed medications to patients and monitor patients for reactions or side effects
- Observe and report changes in patients’ conditions, such as adverse reactions to medications
- Assist patients with self-administration of medications, as needed
- Maintain accurate records of medications administered and patient responses
- Prepare and administer injectable medications, as needed
- Perform routine maintenance and safety checks on equipment used to administer medications
- Receive and store incoming shipments of medications
- Dispense medications to patients or caregivers according to prescription orders
- Collaborate with other members of the healthcare team to plan and provide care for patients
Medication Aide Job Requirements
A Medication Aide is a healthcare professional who is responsible for administering medication to patients in a nursing home or other long-term care facility. The job requires at least a high school diploma, although some employers may prefer candidates with an Associate's degree or higher. Certification as a Medication Aide is also required in most states, and candidates must pass a state-approved exam. Experience working in a long-term care setting is also helpful.
Medication Aide Skills
- Assisting with medication administration
- Providing medication education to patients and families
- Managing medication inventory
- Performing quality control checks on medications
- Maintaining accurate and up-to-date patient records
- Adhering to infection control and safety protocols
- Collaborating with other members of the healthcare team
- Excellent communication skills
- Strong organizational skills
- Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
- Critical thinking skills
Related: Top Medication Aide Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Medication Aide
A Medication Aide is a healthcare professional who is responsible for administering medications to patients. They must have a thorough knowledge of the different types of medications and their effects on the human body. They must be able to safely and accurately administer medications to patients according to doctors’ orders.
To become a Medication Aide, one must first complete a high school education or equivalent. Then, they must complete an accredited Medication Aide training program. After completing the training program, they must pass a national certification exam. Once they have passed the exam, they will be able to work as a Medication Aide in healthcare facilities such as hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities.
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