CERTIFIED MEDICATION AIDE (CMA)

Description

JOB SUMMARY:

The Certified Medication Aide (CMA) is responsible for administering medications to residents in accordance with physician orders, facility policies, and state regulations. The CMA also provides direct resident care, assists with activities of daily living (ADLs), monitors resident conditions, and promotes a safe, respectful, and supportive living environment.

The CMA works under the supervision of licensed nursing staff and performs duties only within the scope of certification and training. The position requires strict adherence to infection control practices, accurate documentation, and protection of resident rights, dignity, and privacy.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Medication Administration

• Administer medications according to physician orders, facility policy, and state regulations.
• Follow the Five Rights of Medication Administration at all times:
• Right resident
• Right medication
• Right dose
• Right route
• Right time
• Accurately document medications in the Medication Administration Record (MAR) immediately after administration.
• Observe residents for side effects or adverse reactions and report concerns to licensed nursing staff promptly.
• Ensure proper storage, handling, labeling, and security of medications.
• Maintain accurate narcotic counts and complete all required documentation in the narcotic log.
• Report medication errors immediately according to facility policy.

Resident Care

• Assist residents with activities of daily living (ADLs), including:
• Bathing
• Dressing
• Grooming
• Toileting
• Feeding
• Ambulation and transfers
• Assist with meal setup and feeding as needed.
• Ensure residents receive proper nutrition and hydration.
• Reposition residents to prevent pressure injuries.
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized resident living spaces.
• Use proper body mechanics and transfer techniques.

Monitoring and Documentation

• Measure and record vital signs, including:
• Blood pressure
• Pulse
• Temperature
• Respirations
• Observe and report changes in resident condition, behavior, or mood.
• Complete all required documentation accurately, legibly, and in a timely manner.
• Maintain accurate entries in:
• MARs
• Treatment records
• Incident reports
• Narcotic logs

Infection Control and Safety

• Follow all infection control policies and procedures.
• Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Maintain cleanliness of equipment and resident areas.
• Assist in preventing the spread of illness and infection.
• Report safety hazards, incidents, or concerns immediately.

Resident Rights and Quality of Life

• Treat all residents with dignity, respect, compassion, and professionalism.
• Protect resident rights, privacy, and confidentiality at all times.
• Encourage resident independence and participation in daily activities.
• Respond promptly and respectfully to resident requests and needs.
• Report any suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, or misappropriation of resident property immediately in accordance with facility policy and state law.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Complete assigned duties accurately, safely, and within scheduled timeframes.
• Ensure all daily tasks and assigned responsibilities are completed each shift.
• Communicate effectively with nursing staff, residents, families, and team members.
• Attend required staff meetings, in-services, and training sessions.
• Follow all facility policies, procedures, and state and federal regulations.
• Maintain confidentiality of resident and facility information in accordance with HIPAA.
• Maintain professional conduct, appearance, and attendance.
• Perform other duties as assigned within the scope of certification and training.

Requirements

• Active Certified Medication Aide (CMA) certification (state-approved).
• Active Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) certification
• Successful completion of background check.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.
• Basic computer or documentation skills as required by the facility.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, transfer, and reposition residents (up to 50 pounds or more with assistance).
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform physical tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations.
• Manual dexterity to administer medications and operate medical equipment.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Work Environment

• Long-term care, assisted living, or skilled nursing setting.
• Exposure to infectious diseases, bodily fluids, and cleaning agents.
• Fast-paced environment requiring multitasking, teamwork, and attention to detail.