Minnesota State Offers Summer Medication Aide Training

Posted on May 25, 2023 by Anna Mowry

Minnesota State provides the required training to work as a Medication Aide in a skilled nursing facility. They have new classes set up for June and will have July classes posted by the end of this week. Students will develop an understanding of drug administration with this comprehensive training program.

Available in two formats, classroom and hybrid, the Minnesota State curriculum offers consistency and customized training options to meet any needs. A wide variety of exercises and activities let students apply their knowledge to healthcare settings. The class includes a new textbook specifically designed for the medication aide. The training and supplemental resources will also prepare participants for written and skills exams by building knowledge and developing skills competency. This course requires a minimum of forty-eight hours of instruction. 

Course registration information

Students can register for open enrollment classes on the rSchoolToday website at Health and Wellness - Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. Minimum enrollments are needed, depending on the course delivery method.

Overview

Highlights of the course include:

• Consistent curriculum and textbook throughout all Minnesota State ensures consistent training for all employees across Minnesota 
• Textbook is geared specifically for the role of a medication aide and offered at an affordable price for students and facilities 
• Flexible training options, including in-person and hybrid, to meet the scheduling needs of students and facilities 
• Cost of the training may be reimbursable to nursing facilities. Contact Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) to learn more.

Student pre-requisites

It is recommended that a person works as a certified nursing assistant for six months before taking this course and be at least 18 years of age. Minnesota law governs the qualifications required to work as a medication aide in a licensed nursing home. 

To work as a medication aide in a skilled nursing facility, students must have completed a nursing assistant training program approved by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) before enrollment in a trained medication aide program. These employees are not required to take the nursing assistant exam nor to have ever been on the nursing assistant registry. 

A person who challenges the Minnesota nursing assistant exam or transfers in from another state, for example, would not be eligible. It is the responsibility of the facility to document the completion of an approved nursing assistant training program. If you have questions regarding eligibility, please visit the Office of Revisor of Statues website.

Customization opportunities available

M State can work with providers to customize the training beyond the 48 required hours. Location, schedule, and delivery mode (hybrid or in-person) can be adjusted to meet specific needs. Providers should contact their local Minnesota State college customized training department to discuss options. Pricing may vary. 

To schedule a contract training for your organization, contact your local campus or email leann.snidarich@minnstate.edu