Medication Aide

Essential Duties and Responsibilities


* Administer oral and topical medications as prescribed by the attending physician or Medical Director.


* Observe residents for any adverse reactions or refusal of medications and report findings immediately to the Charge Nurse or Director of Nursing Services.


* Verify resident identity prior to administering medications or treatments.


* Ensure all medications are properly labeled and stored per facility policy.


* Follow all facility policies regarding medication administration, destruction, labeling, documentation, and storage.


* Accurately document medication administration and reasons for omitted doses in the medical record.


* Record and report vital signs as required before and after medication administration.


* Assist with charting, completing medication administration records (MARs), and other required documentation.


* Report medication errors and assist with investigations into causes and prevention strategies.


* Participate in Quality Assurance and performance improvement activities related to the medication pass process.


* Observe, document, and report any complaints, grievances, or irregularities in resident care.


* Maintain cooperative relationships with physicians, pharmacists, nursing staff, and other departments.


* Ensure medications brought in by newly admitted residents are reviewed and approved by the facility pharmacist or physician.


* Assist with inventory, receiving, and destruction of medications under proper supervision.


* Follow infection control procedures and universal precautions during all medication-related tasks.


* Attend in-service training and continuing education as required to maintain certification.


* Follow established schedules, assignments, and facility procedures for all work duties.


* Maintain resident confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA guidelines.


* Immediately report any unauthorized access or attempted access to resident records or facility systems.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:


* High school diploma or equivalent required.

Certificates and Licenses:


* Must be a state-certified Medication Aide, having successfully completed an approved training program and examination in accordance with state law.

Skills and Abilities

Language Skills:


* Ability to read and understand medical terminology, professional journals, and facility policies.


* Ability to write reports, complete forms, and communicate effectively with supervisors and staff.

Mathematical Skills:


* Ability to apply basic math concepts including fractions, ratios, and percentages as needed in medication dosages and documentation.

Reasoning Ability:


* Ability to solve practical problems using standard procedures and judgment.


* Ability to interpret written, oral, diagram, or schedule i...