Medication Administration

Medication Administration


Medication Administration for Certified Nurse Aide

In the ACC Medication Administration for Nurse Aide Program, those currently employed as certified nursing assistants can continue their education and develop a new skill. In this 148-hour state-approved program, you will learn the skills needed for the safe administration of routine medications to residents in long-term care, MHMR facilities, licensed personal care facilities and correctional institutions. Upon completion of the program and successful state testing, you will earn your medication aide certificate, which allows you to perform certain skills with supervisory clearance, including:

  • Observe and report reactions and side effects to medications
  • Take and record vital signs prior to administering medications
  • Administer regularly prescribed medication which you have been trained to administer
  • Administer oxygen via nasal cannula or a non-sealing mask in an emergency

Along with this introductory class, ACC also offers a Medication Aide Update class to help meet the annual educational requirements needed for this type of certification. This course is offered monthly except in January.

Course Description

The class provides in-depth review of medication administration including body systems; anatomy and physiology; and medication properties and includes classroom, laboratory and supervised clinical experience. Curriculum for this course includes, but is not limited to:

  • Procedures for preparation and administration of medications
  • Responsibility, accountability, storage and liabilities of medication administration
  • Use of reference materials
  • Documentation of medications
  • Federal and state licensing and certification standards
  • Lines of authority in clinical facilities
  • Allowable and prohibited practices of permit holders in medication administration
  • Drug reactions and side effects of commonly administered medications
  • Rules governing the Texas Department of Aging & Disabilities Medication Aide program

Admission Requirements

  • Be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED
  • Be able to effectively communicate orally and in-writing with English
  • Have a basic understanding of computers and access to email
  • Be physically able to stand for prolonged periods and maneuver in limited spaces
  • Be able to push/pull/lift 50+ pounds
  • Visit the CEWD Healthcare page for the Viewpoint Screening and the application process and needs: 
    • Pass a criminal background check
    • Be current in health care vaccinations
    • CEWD Physical form completed
    • Have a current CPR certification
    • Read and understand HB1508 requirements for the licensing path 
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  • Have been employed in a facility for 90 days as a non-licensed direct care staff person – this employment must occur during the 12-month period preceding the first official class day.
  • An employ-ability check using both the EMR and NAR will be conducted by the coordinator to verify that the student is not listed as unemployable and not listed as a revoked or suspended permit status in their CNA licensing. 

Upcoming Classes:

Medication Administration for the Nurse Aide - TBA

Medication Aide Update for the Nurse Aide - TBA

This class helps fulfill the annual education renewal requirements for the certified medication aide. Class topics include a review and update of medication aide training rules, medication administration, and related responsibilities.
Note: The Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services recommends taking the Update class 90 days prior to permit expiration.