Questions and Answers
What is a Medication Aide permitted to administer medications in?
What is one requirement to be a Medication Aide in Texas?
Be at least 18 years old
What minimum number of hours is required for the Medication Aide program?
140 hours
Which of the following is NOT allowed for a permit holder under Health and Safety Code, Chapter 242?
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A permit holder is required to document any symptoms indicating the need for medication.
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How long is an initial permit valid for?
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What is the late renewal fee for less than 90 days?
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What must a permit holder do if they fail the examination?
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How many continuing education hours are required for the first renewal?
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A permit holder may crush medication for administration without authorization.
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Study Notes
Medication Aide Program Overview
- Medication Aides are authorized by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) to administer medications in various facilities such as nursing homes, ICF/IID, correctional institutions, and assisted living facilities.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old and possess the ability to read, write, and understand English.
- Required to be a high school graduate or have a GED.
- Must be free from communicable diseases and in suitable physical and emotional health.
- Must currently be employed as a nurse aide (CNA) or a non-licensed direct care staff in the facility before training commences.
Training Program Structure
- The program consists of 140 hours: 100 hours of classroom instruction, 20 hours of lab skill demonstrations, and 10 hours of supervised clinical experience under a licensed nurse.
- An additional 10 hours of lab skill demonstrations is required.
Administration of Medications
- Aides may only administer medications if they hold a current license or permit.
- Must work under direct supervision of a licensed nurse who is on duty or on call.
- In nursing facilities, aides must comply with nurse aide requirements.
Allowable Practices
- Permitted to observe and report medication reactions to a licensed nurse.
- May take and record vital signs prior to medication administration.
- Can administer oxygen in emergencies and document actions appropriately.
- Allowed to administer medications intended for specific routes such as ophthalmic, optic, nasal, vaginal, and rectal, but prohibited from injections.
Prohibited Practices
- Aides may not administer medication by intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, intradermal, or hypodermoclysis routes.
- Not allowed to crush medications without nurse's authorization or to administer feeding via tubes.
- Aides must not document symptoms or administer PRN medications without licensed nurse's consent.
- Misuse or theft of medications, and fraudulent activities regarding permit application are strictly prohibited.
Examination and Certification
- Applicants must meet training program requirements before taking the DADS examination.
- The exam covers safe drug therapy knowledge and can only be taken after completing the training program.
- Results must be communicated within 30 days, with retake opportunities provided under specific conditions.
Permit Renewal
- Initial permits are valid for 12 months; continuing education of 7 hours is required prior to expiration for renewal.
- Late renewal fees apply depending on the duration past the expiration date, with specific costs outlined.
- If more than a year has passed without renewal, the individual must retrain and retest.
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Description
This quiz provides an overview of the Medication Aide Program authorized by the Texas DADS. It covers eligibility requirements, training structure, and the administration of medications. Ideal for those seeking to understand the foundational aspects of becoming a medication aide in Texas.
