The Lead Certified Medication Assistant and Certified Nursing Assistant (CMA/CNA Lead) is a pivotal role within the nursing team, combining expertise in medication administration with hands-on patient care. This position requires a high level of skill, responsibility, and leadership to ensure the safe and efficient delivery of medication and comprehensive care to residents. The CMA/CNA Lead oversees and supports Certified Medication Assistants (CMAs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) in the performance of their duties.
Essential Functions
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Dispense oral, inhalation and topical medications to patients under direct supervision of a licensed nurse unless otherwise allowed by state law.
- Observe patients for drug reactions and report any problems to the nurses.
- Performing tasks associated with medication administration, including patient vital signs, calculate medication dosages and stock the medication cart.
- Recording medication administration according to agency procedure
- Assists the nurse in providing care to clients, which includes observation and reporting of client needs.
- Recognizes and performs tasks according to level of education and training.
- Accepts responsibility and accountability for own performance according to state laws and regulations.
- Performs tasks in an ethical, legal, and caring manner.
- Performs tasks safely and effectively to assure client comfort and welfare.
- Respects client rights
- Protects confidential client information unless otherwise required to promote client safety and welfare.
- Follows federal, state, and agency regulations to protect own health and that of others.
- Seeks guidance from the nurse as needed to perform tasks safely and efficiently.
Key Responsibilities
Medication Administration:
- Administer medications to residents in accordance with prescribed orders, ensuring accuracy and compliance with established protocols.
- Monitor residents for any adverse reactions or side effects, promptly reporting and documenting incidents.
Supervision and Training:
- Provide leadership and guidance to CMAs and CNAs, ensuring adherence to medication administration protocols and patient care standards.
- Conduct ongoing training sessions for medication administration, infection control, and other relevant topics.
Patient Care:
- Assist residents with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and mobility.
- Collaborate with the nursing team to create and implement care plans tailored to residents' individual needs.
Assessment and Reporting:
- Conduct routine patient assessments and communicate changes in residents' conditions to the nursing team.
- Complete and maintain accurate records, including medication administration records and progress notes.
Quality Assurance:
- Participate in quality assurance initiatives and contribute to the development and implementation of best practices in medication administration and patient care.
- Conduct regular audits of medication storage and ensure compliance with safety protocols.
Team Collaboration:
- Work collaboratively with nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive and coordinated care.
- Foster a positive and supportive team environment, promoting open communication and collaboration.
Emergency Response:
- Act swiftly and effectively in emergency situations, providing first aid and collaborating with the nursing team to ensure residents' safety.
Regulatory Compliance:
- Stay informed about and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations related to medication administration and patient care.
- Participate in facility inspections and audits as needed.
Competencies
Customer/Client Focus; Ethical Conduct; Flexibility; Initiative; Personal Effectiveness/Credibility; Stress Management/Composure; Teamwork Orientation; Technical Capacity; Multi-tasking; Medical Teamwork; Bedside Manner & Compassion; Infection Control; Health Promotion and Maintenance; Creating a Safe, Effective Environment; Informing Others; Judgment; Pain Management.
Work Environment
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles and some mechanical equipment. The employee is occasionally exposed to a variety of patient conditions and elements. The noise level is moderate to quiet.
Required Education and Experience
- Active certification as a Certified Medication Assistant (CMA) and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
- High school diploma or equivalent; additional training in medication administration is required.
- Previous experience in a long-term care is preferred.
- Strong leadership and organizational skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Other Duties
The CMA/CNA Lead is a dual-role position that requires expertise in both medication administration and direct patient care. This individual plays a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of residents while providing leadership and support to the broader nursing team.
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations under the ADA may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Must be able to push, pull, move and/or lift to but no more than 50 pounds to a height of 6ft.
Must be able to push, pull, move, and carry up to but no more than 50 pounds a minimum distance of 20 feet.
