Hire Certified Medication Aides
In hiring a certified medication aide, it is important to highlight their impact on day-to-day patient care. An accurate job description is the first point of communication between candidates and the hiring medical facility or institution. Create a job description that is clear, concise, and detailed. Are you looking for candidates who live in a specific area? What is the schedule? Is prior experience required? Outline the responsibilities and requirements clearly. Keep in mind that the job description should be more than just a list of expectations. Highlight what you can offer the candidate, including: a positive workplace culture, opportunities for growth, and other appealing aspects of the job.
Additionally, be clear about the schedule, the number of hours, and location. Depending on the need, certified medication aides may work in hospitals and assisted living facilities on a part-time or full-time basis.
Once you have a compelling job description, posting your job announcement is the next step. Aside from general job boards, it is best for hiring managers to post job announcements on healthcare-specific job boards, online groups, and in community groups as well.
Certified Medication Aide Responsibilities
Certified medication aides perform a variety of patient care duties. The responsibilities of a certified medication aide are all guided by the patient’s care and treatment plans, developed and approved by the patient’s health team.
As the job title implies, certified medication aides deliver and administer routine medications to patients in coordination with the nurse on duty. The patients assigned to certified medication aides are generally in stable condition. Certified medication aides ensure that the right medication is given at the right time, with the right dosage, and to the right patient. They must follow both written and verbal instructions regarding medication administration and are not allowed to change medications and start intravenous lines or provide injections.
Certified medication aides maintain a record of the medications given, observe the patients’ reaction, vital signs, and monitor changes in their condition. They are responsible for immediately reporting any concerning reactions or emergencies.
Lastly, certified medication aides treat patients with respect, compassion, and empathy. They uphold patient confidentiality and professionalism at all times and follow legislation, healthcare laws, and safety standards.
Certified Medication Aide Skills and Qualifications
The ideal candidate for a certified medication aide is a person who is compassionate, trustworthy, and professional with excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Candidates must have at least a high school diploma or a GED and must have finished additional training as a certified nursing assistant.
An up to date certification as a medication aide is required as well as knowledge of medical and pharmacological terminologies. The candidate also needs unexpired CPR and First Aid Training certificates. Previous experience in the same role is an advantage.
Moreover, other qualifications include attention to detail, the ability to follow instructions well, and the ability to meticulously follow standard protocols regarding patient care. Flexibility to work on evenings, weekends, and even holidays is a plus.
Certified medication aides help the healthcare delivery team in many ways. By taking on the responsibility of medication administration, they are an integral part of the fulfillment of the care and management plan.
