North Carolina Medical Aide Program

Eligibility: To be eligible for the North Carolina Medication Aide Program, candidates must meet the following requirements: Certified Nursing Assistant Level 1 (CNA-1) Certification: Must hold a current and active CNA-1 certification in North Carolina. Must be listed in good standing on the North Carolina Nurse Aide I Registry. Experience: Must have a minimum of 1 year of work experience as a CNA-1 in a long-term care facility. Background Check: Must pass a criminal background check as required by the employing facility and the North Carolina Board of Nursing. Basic Education: Must possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Program Curriculum The North Carolina Medication Aide Program consists of a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide CNAs with the necessary knowledge and skills to administer medications safely. The curriculum includes the following components: Classroom Instruction (24 hours Introduction to Medication Administration: Roles and responsibilities of a medication aide. Legal and ethical considerations. Pharmacology Basics: Commonly used medications. Drug classifications and effects on the body. Medication Preparation and Administration: Techniques for preparing and administering oral, topical, and inhalant medications. Proper documentation and record-keeping. Safety and Infection Control: Preventing medication errors. Infection control practices. Communication Skills: Communicating effectively with residents and healthcare team members. Reporting and documenting medication administration accurately. Clinical Practice (16 hours): Supervised hands-on practice in a clinical setting. Administration of medications to residents under the supervision of an RN. Practical experience with medication administration procedures and techniques. Certification Examination Upon completion of the Medication Aide Program, candidates must pass a state-approved competency examination to become certified as a Medication Aide in North Carolina.