Maryland CNAs who want more clinical responsibility often look at the certified medication technician role next. CMTs administer medications under the delegation of a registered nurse in assisted living programs, skilled nursing facilities, and other approved settings. Here's what the job involves, what the state requires, and how to find PRN CMT shifts.
What is a certified medication technician (CMT)?
A certified medication technician is often referred to by the acronym CMT. This profession also has many other names that differ depending on your state. Other names include certified medication assistant (CMA), certified medication aide (CMA), medication aide certified (MAC), medication assistant certified (MAC), and medication nursing assistant (MNA).
Maryland is one of the few states that refers to those who work within this profession as CMTs.
What does a CMT do?
A CMT has completed the necessary training to administer nonparenteral medications in Maryland's assisted living programs, skilled nursing facilities, and other approved settings. Nonparenteral medications include medicines administered orally, topically (such as creams and ointments), and through nebulization and suppositories. Nonparenteral medications do not include intravenous medications or injections.
CMTs are responsible for correctly identifying their patient before administering medications to avoid medication errors. In the patient's chart, CMTs must also document medication administration, including the date, time, medication type and name, and dosage. Furthermore, regardless of the work setting, CMTs work under the delegation and supervision of a registered nurse (RN).
How can I become a CMT in Maryland?
Keep in mind that certification requirements are state-specific. If you are interested in this profession but live outside Maryland, review our blog, "Medication Aide Requirements by State Resource Guide," to find the profession title and resource that applies to your location.
The Maryland Board of Nursing regulates medication technician certification and maintains a list of Board-approved CMT training programs. It's important to note that a few qualifications are required to be eligible for a CMT training program, including a high school diploma or equivalent, current certification as a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in Maryland, and a minimum period of work experience as a CNA.
Once you've completed an approved training program, you must pass a final exam with written and practicum components before you can be certified as a CMT in Maryland.
How can I find high-paying CMT jobs?
If you're already a CMT in Maryland and interested in earning more for the vital work that you do, check out Nursa. Nursa connects certified medication technicians to high-paying PRN jobs at healthcare facilities that urgently need CMTs. There's no long-term commitment; you can pick up PRN CMT shifts when and where you want. Join Nursa today and find PRN CMT shifts near you.
