Med techs

[jennyga]

Here in Ohio they are now trying a new thing in ltc facilities "Med Techs" which is an stna with and extra 24 hrs.(as i understood correct me if i am wrong) training in med passing. Now I am going to be graduating an L.P.N. program and i took Pharm for 6 months and i have to say besides O.B. it was one of my hardest classes. Alot of information and knowledge are needed to pass meds I cant imagine an s.t.n.a passing meds with only an extra 24 hrs. training! What is this world coming to!?:angryfire:uhoh3:

[TheCommuter, BSN, RN]

For those who are unaware, an STNA = State trained nursing assistant

Yep. The thought of a CNA passing medications is quite frightening. In no way am I attempting to insult the CNAs out there, but I would not accept meds from someone who lacks basic pharmacological knowledge.

Honestly, I think Ohio is doing this to save money.

[Crystle_clear]

I'm working as a QMA (qualified medication aide) right now while I finish nursing school. In Indiana to become a QMA you must have worked as a CNA or certified psychiatric technician for 1000 hours, pass a pharmacology course with an 82% or above, complete a QMA training program with 200 hours of clinical time, and then pass a state licensure test administered by the BON to become licensed.

I really doubt that the STNAs in Ohio only get 24 hours of training before being allowed to pass meds. If that is actually true, then it is extremely sad the level of care those patients are receiving. You are right it does take more knowledge to pass meds than your basic CNA would have.

[Merrique]

My sister was a CNA I for several years in both Va and NC. In one of her jobs, they wanted her to pass meds with hardly any knowledge. I remember her saying the task made her feel very uncomfortable.