The Medication Administration Training Program ("Program") is a 16 hour training program developed to train unlicensed persons to administer medication under the direction and supervision of a registered nurse. Specific training programs have been approved by the Board for the following settings: Assisted Living, Developmental Disabilities, School Health and Juvenile Justice. Each training program must be taught by a registered nurse who has been approved to teach the training program specific to the setting. Once the individual has completed a Medication Administration Training Program the individual is eligible for registration as a medication assistant with the Maryland Board of Nursing. Registration is required in order to be eligible to administer medications delegation by a licensed nurse.

The content of each approved medication assistant training program includes:

1) the basic knowledge needed to give medication safely;

2) a discussion of selected diseases and the drugs most commonly used with these medical disruptions specific to the patient population;

3) categories of medication;

4) observations of the client when taking these medications;

5) safe medication storage;

6) documentation associated with the administration of medication.

Each training program evaluates the student learner through the use of approximately 24 "mini" paper and pencil tests. The learning principle of "mastering" is the foundation for each training program. The 24 "mini" tests are used instead of one final comprehensive examination. In addition, to the paper and pencil testing, the student must also demonstrate, with 100% accuracy, the procedure for hand washing, preparing medication for administration and the procedure for medication administration, administering medication in a simulated setting and documentation of the medication administered. The course may be taught in segments which will best meet the student’s need, for example, four-four hour sessions; or eight-two hour sessions etc.

Once the individual has completed the Medication Administration Training Program the individual is eligible for registration as a medication assistant with the Maryland Board of Nursing. Registration is required in order to administer medications that have been delegated by a registered nurse.