Certified Caregiver

Essential Duties

• Follow the policies and procedures of the facility governing the administering of medications to residents.
• Note and report errors in the administration of medications.
• Absorb and implement procedures or programs aimed at identifying medication errors, their causes, and preventive measures.
• Complete necessary forms, charts, reports, etc., as required and submit them.
• Maintain a friendly, productive relationship with other members of the nursing department, attending physicians, the Medical Director, and pharmacists.
• Report any complaints or grievances made by residents to the Director of Nursing Services.
• Participate and cooperate with facility surveys (inspections) made by authorized government agencies.
• Participate in Quality Assurance programs, the Pharmaceutical Services Committee, and other facility committees or programs affecting the medication process.
• Accurately and safely prepare, administer, and document oral and topical medications.
• Verify medications brought into the facility by newly admitted residents.
• Follow facility policies and procedures regarding the destruction of medications.
• Maintain proper labeling of medications.
• Document and remove discontinued medications accurately.
• Notify the Director of Nursing Services and follow procedures for drug receipt errors.
• Ensure documentation of drug receipt errors includes a written report signed by an observer/witness and the Medication Aide.
• Follow facility procedures for holding medications for residents transferring out or whose medications are discontinued.
• Observe and verify that medication is ingested or applied as directed.
• Document instances where prescribed medication is not administered.
• Promptly notify the Charge Nurse, Nurse Supervisor, or Director of Nursing Services of any errors or reactions to medications.
• Verify the identity of the resident before administering medication.
• Accurately measure, record, and report vital signs of residents.
• Follow facility procedures allowing residents to self-administer medications.
• Be familiar with common medical abbreviations, symbols, and terms relevant to the administration of medications.
• Attend and participate in continuing education programs.
• Agree not to disclose resident's protected health information and promptly report any violations.
• Perform all assigned tasks in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Follow work assignments and schedules.
• Cooperate with inter-departmental personnel and other facility personnel.
• Maintain confidentiality of resident care information, including protected health information.
• Report known or suspected incidents of unauthorized disclosure of such information.
• Supervisory Requirements: No supervisor responsibilities.

  Qualifications

  • High school education or equivalent.
  • Must be a licensed Medication Aide, having successfully completed a state-approved training program and any necessary examinations.