A Certified Medication Aide (CMA) plays a vital role in patient care, ensuring the safe administration of medications under a nurse’s supervision. If you’re considering a career as a Medication Aide in Virginia, this guide will walk you through the requirements, training programs, certification process, and career opportunities.
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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.
Medication Aides work in various healthcare settings, including:
To become a Certified Medication Aide in Virginia, you must complete an approved training program and meet the Virginia Board of Nursing requirements.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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.
Looking for approved Medication Aide training programs?
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Becoming a Medication Aide can lead to higher-paying healthcare roles such as:
No, but you must complete a 40-hour direct care training program or a state-approved Nurse Aide program.
Numerous local colleges and trade schools in Virginia offer Medication Aide training classes that can be completed in a brief period of just 2 to 3.5 weeks.
Becoming a Medication Aide in Virginia is a fast-track way to enter the healthcare field while making a real difference in patient care. With flexible training programs, strong job demand, and opportunities for career advancement, this role is a great starting point in healthcare.
Explore your options today with Dreambound and take the first step toward an exciting career in healthcare.
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Athena is Co-founder and CEO of Dreambound.