Certified Medication Aide Course (CMA)

Course Description

This 60-hour course is approved by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA).

This course consists of 30 hours of online instruction, followed by 30 hours of clinical experience. The purpose of the course is to certify nurse aides/CNAs to safely administer non-parental medications in nursing facilities and related areas. The emphasis is on the safe handling and administration of medications to residents.

Course Prerequisites

To take this course and become certified, the applicant must be drug free and working in a nursing, residential or related type of facility licensed by the DIA. Other requirements include:

If employed in a certified nursing facility:

• Applicants must be employed by the facility and have worked at least 480 hours prior to the start of the course.
• Must be eligible on the Iowa Nurse Aide Registry.

The Facility Administrator must complete the facility sponsor form. The student will upload the completed form once they login to the course.

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS THE FORM

Residential Care Facility (15+ beds), Assisted Living and other levels of care:

• Provide a letter of approval/recommendation for participation from the facility administrator in which they are employed and supporting documents prior to the first day of class.

All facilities are required to identify the RN responsible for supervision of clinical hours.

Final Exam

Candidates who successfully complete the Certified Medication Aide Course and clinical components will be required to complete the final exam online proctored by a member of IHCA staff.

Registration Fees

$550 per person
Fee includes access to course curriculum and a printed course workbook.

Optional Course Materials:

• Hard Copy of Course (CMA Textbook) -- $55 each
• Drug Cards -- $30 per set
• Additional Course Workbook -- $35 each

Sponsors

• Training Hours: 60.00