Medication Aide Program Overview

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.

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.