Qualified Medication Aide (QMA)

About the role

The primary responsibility of the Qualified Medication Aide (QMA) is to provide care for the residents under the direction of the nursing and medical staff.

Responsibilities

• Obtains and records patient's vital signs and weight.
• Administers and documents medications given by following specifically written physicians orders, including oral, topical, and suppository medications, as well as eye and ear drops.
• Participates in all in-service programs to expand and develop abilities.
• Maintains compliance to all personnel policies, established community policies and procedures, and Federal and State regulations and standards, including but not limited to HIPAA privacy and confidentiality laws.
• Understands and implements the Fire Safety and Disaster Preparedness Plan and evacuation procedures of the community during drills and actual emergencies.
• Performs various treatments not requiring a licensed nurse (hot/cold applications, vital signs, weights, etc.). Uses procedure manual to verify correct techniques and practices standard precautions.
• Observes, records, and reports observations such as unexpected and untoward effects from medications.
• Takes vital signs as needed prior to administration of certain medications.
• Provides direct resident care. Functions as a CNA when not assigned to administer medications.
• Develops and maintains courteous and professional relationships with residents, visitors, and co-workers.
• Performs other tasks as assigned by supervisor.

Requirements

• QMA Certificate in good standing on file with the appropriate Department of Health and current CNA Certificate.
• One year experience in long-term care setting desired.

Physical Demands

• Required to sit, stand, bend and walk regularly; lift and/or move up to 100 pounds.
• Visual and auditory ability sufficient for written and verbal communication.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.