JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE: CMA (Certified Medication Aide)

LINE OF RESPONSIBILITY: Responsible to the Lead Nurse

FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Non-Exempt

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The incumbent assists in the delivery of health services to youth admitted to the Juvenile Stabilization Center (JSC). Under the supervision of a licensed nurse, the Certified Medication Aide (CMA) administers medications, observes and reports changes in youths' conditions, assists with health-related documentation, and supports a safe, therapeutic environment for youth experiencing behavioral health crises.

The CMA supports the facility’s mission by promoting youth safety, wellness, stabilization, and recovery while maintaining compliance with applicable state regulations and agency policies. This position operates in a residential setting serving youth in crisis. It may require responding to behavioral emergencies, aggressive behaviors, self-harm incidents, exposure to communicable diseases, and other high-stress situations requiring sound judgment and rapid decision-making.

Duties:

E = essential function, M = marginal function

1.    Assists nursing staff with admissions, vital signs, and medication reconciliation as directed by the nurse. (E)

2.    Participates in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development activities. (M)

3.    Administers and documents medications according to physician orders and facility policy. (E)

4.    Observes youth for medication effectiveness and adverse reactions. (E)

5.    Observes and reports signs of illness, injury, intoxication, withdrawal, self-harm, suicide risk, violence, or elopement risk. (E)

6.    Ensures the Five Rights of Medication Administration are followed. (E)

7.    Participates in emergency response activities as directed. (E)

8.    Maintains confidentiality and compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards. (E)

9.    Follows infection control, safety, and emergency preparedness procedures. (E)

10.  Monitors medical supplies and medication inventory. (M)

11.  Communicates significant findings to the LPN, RN, provider, and treatment team. (E)

12.  Supports orientation and training of new staff as assigned. (M)

13.  Maintains confidentiality and compliance with regulatory and accreditation standards. (E)

14.  Accepts additional duties as assigned. (M)

Qualifications:

Required:

·         High school diploma or GED required.

·         Current Certified Medication Aide (CMA) certification in good standing in the State of Kansas.

·         Must be at least 21 years of age. 

·         Must successfully pass KBI, CANIS, and any other background checks required by the organization.

·         Valid Kansas driver’s license with an acceptable driving record and ability to be insured under the organization’s insurance policy. 

·         Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds. 

·         Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and navigate stairs throughout the workday. 

·         Ability to respond quickly to medical, behavioral, and safety emergencies, including participation in approved crisis intervention activities.   

Preferred:

·         Experience in behavioral health, residential treatment, juvenile services, corrections, crisis stabilization, long-term care, or pediatric settings. 

·         Current CPR certification.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 

The Certified Medication Aide plays a critical role in ensuring youth safety and stabilization through medication administration, health monitoring, and collaboration with the interdisciplinary team.  Staff are expected to support a trauma-informed, youth-centered approach to care while maintaining a safe and therapeutic environment. 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed.  They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. 

Additional duties may be added, or changes may be made at the discretion of the Chief Executive Officer.  These duties may be assigned orally.