Trained Medication Aide
Direct Care & Nursing
1-3 years
Active on the Minnesota Nursing Assistant Registry and TMA certification required
$22-$26/hr
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Overview
Job Description
The Trained Medication Aide role is a natural next step for CNAs who want to take on more clinical responsibility while staying connected to direct resident care. TMAs administer medications to residents, observe and document resident responses, monitor for side effects or adverse reactions, and report findings to the supervising nurse.
TMAs serve as the critical intermediary between nursing assistants and licensed nurses — bridging everyday personal care and more specialized clinical care. The added responsibility is meaningful, and so is the pay.
TMA certification is available through Minnesota-approved medication aide programs.
Education Requirements
TMA certification requires being active on the MN Nursing Assistant Registry and completion of a Minnesota-approved medication aide program.
Resources
A Day In This Role
A TMA’s day includes morning medication rounds — pulling, verifying, and administering medications to residents according to each resident’s care plan. Between rounds, TMAs monitor residents for any reactions or changes, document administration accurately, and communicate observations to the charge nurse. TMAs also continue providing direct care alongside CNA duties in many settings.
Advancement Opportunities: Where this role can take you
Cross-Pathway Note: The TMA role is a common stepping stone toward LPN or RN licensure. Many TMAs pursue bridge programs that credit their TMA education and experience toward nursing licensure requirements.