Key Points:

• What is a Medication Aide? A Registered Medication Aide (RMA) is a state-registered healthcare professional authorized to administer medications to residents in assisted living facilities, adult day care centers, and group homes.
• How to become a Medication Aide in Virginia? To become an RMA in Virginia, you must first have direct care training (like CNA or PCA), then complete a state-approved 68-hour Medication Aide training program and pass the state board exam.
• Length of training for a Medication Aide: The specific medication aide course takes about 68 hours, which can be completed in as little as 2 to 4 weeks.
• Average Medication Aide salary in Virginia: The median annual salary for a Registered Medication Aide in Virginia is approximately $36,600.
• Prerequisites: You must complete a 40-hour direct care staff training or hold a CNA/PCA certificate before starting the medication aide program.

What is a Medication Aide?

A Medication Aide is a healthcare worker responsible for administering medications to patients in long-term care and assisted living facilities under the supervision of licensed nurses.

Key Responsibilities:

• Preparing and dispensing medications according to prescribed dosages.
• Monitoring patients for side effects and adverse reactions.
• Ensuring proper documentation of medication administration.
• Following safety protocols to prevent medication errors.
• Communicating with nurses and caregivers about patients' conditions.

Where Do Medication Aides Work?

Medication Aides work in various healthcare settings, including:

• Nursing Homes: Managing medication for elderly residents.
• Assisted Living Facilities: Helping residents maintain independence while ensuring proper medication administration.
• Hospitals & Clinics: Assisting nurses in a fast-paced medical environment.
• Home Healthcare Agencies: Providing one-on-one patient care at home.
• Rehabilitation Centers: Supporting patients recovering from injuries or surgeries

Requirements to Become a Medication Aide in Virginia

To become a Certified Medication Aide in Virginia, you must complete an approved training program and meet the Virginia Board of Nursing requirements.

• State-approved 68-hour Medication Aide training program, including classroom instruction and hands-on training.
• A 40-hour direct care staff training program (approved by the Virginia Department of Social Services).
• Alternatively, a state-approved Nurse Aide education program may fulfill part of the requirements.

How to Become a Medication Aide in Virginia?

If you’re ready to become a Certified Medication Aide in Virginia, let's break down the steps you need to follow to get there:

1. Fill Out the Application Form

The first step is to submit your application for registration as a Medication Aide through the Virginia Board of Nursing. Ensure that you fill out all sections of the application form completely and provide any necessary supporting documents to avoid delays in processing.

2. Pay the Fee

There’s a non-refundable $50 application fee required for processing your registration. Be sure to make the payment by check or money order, payable to the Treasurer of Virginia. Note that this fee is not refundable, so it’s important to ensure your application is correct before submitting it.

3. Complete Your Education

To become a Medication Aide in Virginia, you must complete a state-approved 68-hour Medication Aide training program. This includes both theoretical and practical components, with a 3-page performance record required as part of your certification. Ensure that your training program was completed within the last year; otherwise, you’ll need to retake the 68-hour course. Alternatively, a transcript from an RN or LPN program can also fulfill this requirement, provided it includes your graduation date.

4. Additional Training Requirement

In addition to the Medication Aide training, you must also complete a 40-hour staff training program in direct client or personal care. This program must be approved either by the Department of Social Services (DSS) or a board-approved nurse aide education program. This step ensures you are well-prepared to support the diverse needs of patients in various healthcare settings.

5. Supporting Documents (If Applicable)

If you have any prior convictions, it’s essential to provide a detailed explanation of the incident and show the actions you’ve taken to prevent it from happening again. You may need to submit certified court orders or any other relevant legal documents. Additionally, if your name has changed, include proof of the legal name change to avoid any confusion.

Once you’ve completed all the above requirements, review your application, schedule, and take the Medication Aide exam through PSI. Keep in mind that it’s illegal to practice as a Medication Aide in Virginia until you’ve received your official registration. The Virginia Board of Nursing takes 30-45 business days to process your application. If your application is not processed within one year, you will need to reapply.