In partnership with
Certified Medication Aide
Class Dates: January 18 - February 26, 2026
Tuition: $1,522.50 (Grant funding opportunities available with registration.)
Pre-requisites:
- Possess a valid Michigan nurse aide certificate (CNA).
- Must have worked as a nurse aide in a nursing home or skilled nursing facility for at least 2,000 hours during the 2-year period immediately preceding the date of applying for a medication aide certificate.
Course Overview: The Medication Aide Training Program is a comprehensive course designed to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively administer medications in a variety of healthcare settings. This program combines theoretical instruction with practical, hands-on experience to ensure that participants are well-prepared to support licensed nursing staff and enhance patient care.
Course Objectives:
- Understand the role and responsibilities of a medication aide within the healthcare team.
- Learn the basic principles of pharmacology, including drug classifications, mechanisms of action, therapeutic effects, side effects, and adverse reactions.
- Develop proficiency in medication administration techniques, including oral, topical, inhalation, and injectable routes.
- Master the procedures for accurate medication documentation and record-keeping.
- Understand legal and ethical considerations related to medication administration.
- Recognize and respond to medication errors and adverse reactions.
This six-week class is divided into three parts, and includes 49 hours of online classroom learning, 12 hours of skill practice, and 40 hours of supervised clinical practice at Bay Bluffs.
January 18 - February 26: Online classwork done on your own schedule (Approx 8 hours per week)
February 11, 12 pm - 6 pm and February 12, 8 am - 2 pm: Skills lab at NCMC Campus in Petoskey.
February 23 - 26, 7:00 am - 5:00 pm: Supervised clinicals at Bay Bluffs in Harbor Springs.
Documentation Required:
- Possess a valid Michigan nurse aide certificate.
- Must have worked as a nurse aide in a nursing home or skilled nursing facility for at least 2,000 hours during the 2-year period immediately preceding the date of applying for a medication aide certificate.
- TB test or proof of test within the past year.
- Background check
Certification:
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will be eligible to take the state certification exam to become a Certified Medication Aide (CMA).
This 6-week program includes:
• 102 hours of training
• Textbook
• Interactive sessions and hands-on training
• Assistance with grant opportunities to cover tuition
• Access to communication with qualified instructors
• Exam preparation
• Assistance with job placement
• Access to NCMC facilities and learning resources
Registration Deadline: December 31, 2026
Instructors:
Karrie Pater, MSN, RN - BC
I have been a nurse for 26 years, 23 of which have been in Long Term Care. Throughout the years I have held many positions from direct care to administration. This has provided me an opportunity to experience caring for residents from many standpoints. Over the past 12 years I have also taught CNA, PCT, MA and other Allied Health courses for NCMC and employers. My Masters Degree is in Nursing Education and I am Board Certified in Geriatrics. I am passionate about the care of older adults and inherent in this is being a life long learner and sharing knowledge with others so residents receive exceptional care.
Sonja Bosley, RN, NHA
I have 30 years of experience in Long Term and Hospice Care. Currently, I am the Director of Nursing at Bay Bluffs Emmet County Medical Care Facility in Harbor Springs. My other health care experiences have included being a Certified Nursing Aide, a Certified Recreational Therapist, and a Certified Palliative Hospice Nurse. My education includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreational Therapy along with an Associates of Applied Science in Nursing from North Central Michigan College (2006) and I am currently enrolled in a Master’s program for Nursing Education. Throughout my career I have used a holistic approach caring for the elderly, in turn providing dignified and respectful care which all elderly people deserve. I am looking forward to being able to share my experiences and knowledge with others.
