## Medication Assistant, Certified, Long Term Care (LTC) - FT Nights at Sanford Health - Grand Island, NE ### Role Overview As a Medication Assistant (MA) at Sanford Health in Grand Island, Nebraska, you will play a vital role in providing resident-centered care within our Long Term Care (LTC) facility. This full-time night shift position offers an opportunity to contribute to the well-being and comfort of our residents by assisting them with daily living activities, administering medications, and providing essential support under the supervision of a charge nurse. Your dedication and compassionate care will directly impact the quality of life for those we serve. ### A Day in the Life of a Medication Assistant Your typical night shift as a Medication Assistant at Sanford Health might include: * **Assisting residents with personal care:** Helping residents with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting, ensuring their comfort and dignity. * **Administering medications:** Under the delegation of a licensed nurse and within the scope of practice, you will administer prescribed medications, carefully documenting the process and observing for any adverse reactions. * **Monitoring vital signs:** Regularly checking and recording residents' vital signs, such as temperature, blood pressure, and pulse rate, and reporting any abnormalities to the charge nurse. * **Providing mobility assistance:** Assisting residents with transferring, repositioning, and walking, using proper techniques and equipment to ensure their safety. * **Supporting nutritional needs:** Helping residents with meals and snacks, providing water and supplements, and creating a positive dining experience. * **Maintaining a clean environment:** Performing housekeeping and laundry services to keep residents' living areas clean and operational. * **Engaging residents in activities:** Assisting with wellness and recreational programs, encouraging residents to participate and socialize. * **Communicating with the healthcare team:** Reporting any changes in residents' condition, medication follow-up needs, or care-related concerns to the charge nurse. * **Documenting care:** Accurately and thoroughly documenting all aspects of resident care, medication administration, behavior, and dietary intake. * **Responding to emergencies:** Being prepared to respond to resident emergencies, following established protocols and seeking assistance when needed. ### Why Grand Island, Nebraska? Grand Island, Nebraska, offers a welcoming community with a high quality of life. It combines the charm of a small town with the amenities of a larger city. Consider these factors when deciding if Grand Island is right for you: * **Affordable Living:** Grand Island boasts a lower cost of living compared to many other cities in the United States, making it an attractive option for those seeking financial stability. * **Strong Community:** Known for its friendly and supportive atmosphere, Grand Island offers a strong sense of community, making it easy to build relationships and feel at home. * **Family-Friendly Environment:** With excellent schools, numerous parks, and family-oriented activities, Grand Island is an ideal place to raise a family. * **Outdoor Recreation:** Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating, at nearby parks and recreational areas. * **Career Opportunities:** Grand Island has a diverse economy with opportunities in healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and other sectors. * **Central Location:** Its central location in Nebraska provides easy access to other major cities in the Midwest. * **Arts and Culture:** Explore local museums, theaters, and art galleries, providing enriching cultural experiences. * **Festivals and Events:** Participate in various festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating the community's heritage and spirit. * **Quality Healthcare:** Access to quality healthcare services through Sanford Health and other medical providers. * **Safe Environment:** Enjoy a low crime rate and a safe environment for residents of all ages. ### Career Path for a Medication Assistant at Sanford Health Sanford Health is committed to the growth and development of its employees. A Medication Assistant role can be a stepping stone to various career paths within the organization. Here are some potential advancement opportunities: * **Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA):** Further your education and become a CNA, expanding your scope of practice and responsibilities. * **Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN):** Pursue a nursing degree and become an LPN, providing more advanced nursing care to residents. * **Registered Nurse (RN):** Continue your education and become an RN, taking on leadership roles and providing comprehensive patient care. * **Charge Nurse:** With experience and leadership skills, you can advance to a charge nurse position, overseeing the care provided by a team of MAs and CNAs. * **Nurse Manager:** With advanced education and experience, you can become a nurse manager, responsible for the overall operation of a nursing unit. * **Training and Education:** Utilize your experience to become a trainer or educator for new Medication Assistants and other healthcare staff. * **Specialized Care:** Specialize in a specific area of long-term care, such as dementia care or rehabilitation. * **Leadership Roles:** Take on leadership roles within the organization, such as participating in committees or task forces. * **Quality Improvement:** Contribute to quality improvement initiatives, helping to enhance the care provided to residents. * **Mentorship:** Mentor new employees, sharing your knowledge and experience to help them succeed. ### Salary and Benefits The salary range for this position is estimated to be $32,000 - $45,000 annually, but actual compensation may vary depending on experience, qualifications, and internal equity. Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes: * **Health Insurance:** Medical, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your family healthy. * **Paid Time Off (PTO):** Accrue PTO to use for vacations, sick days, and personal time. * **Paid Holidays:** Enjoy paid time off for major holidays. * **401(k) Retirement Plan:** Save for your future with a 401(k) plan that includes an employer match. * **Life Insurance:** Protect your loved ones with life insurance coverage. * **Disability Insurance:** Receive income protection if you become disabled and unable to work. * **Employee Assistance Program (EAP):** Access confidential counseling and support services. * **Tuition Reimbursement:** Pursue further education with tuition reimbursement assistance. * **Professional Development:** Enhance your skills and knowledge with professional development opportunities. * **Employee Discounts:** Enjoy discounts on various products and services. * **Wellness Programs:** Participate in wellness programs to promote your health and well-being. * **Other Benefits:** Flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, and other valuable benefits. ### Sanford Health Culture Sanford Health is committed to creating a culture of: * **Respect:** Treating everyone with dignity and respect. * **Integrity:** Adhering to the highest ethical standards. * **Teamwork:** Working collaboratively to achieve common goals. * **Innovation:** Embracing new ideas and technologies. * **Excellence:** Striving for excellence in all that we do. * **Compassion:** Providing compassionate care to our patients and residents. * **Accountability:** Taking responsibility for our actions. * **Diversity and Inclusion:** Valuing diversity and creating an inclusive environment. * **Community Involvement:** Giving back to the communities we serve. * **Continuous Improvement:** Always seeking ways to improve our services and processes. ### How to Apply If you are passionate about providing compassionate care to residents in a long-term care setting and are looking for a rewarding career with a growing organization, we encourage you to apply for the Medication Assistant position at Sanford Health in Grand Island, Nebraska. To apply, please visit our career website and submit your application online. We look forward to hearing from you! ### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. **What are the key responsibilities of a Medication Assistant?** *Medication Assistants assist residents with daily living activities, administer medications, monitor vital signs, and provide essential support under the supervision of a charge nurse.* 2. **What qualifications are required for this position?** *High school diploma or GED (preferred), prior clinical or nursing assistant experience in long-term care (preferred), and successful completion of required certifications and training.* 3. **What is the typical work schedule for a full-time night shift Medication Assistant?** *The typical work schedule is 12-hour night shifts, with 36 scheduled weekly hours.* 4. **What opportunities are there for career advancement at Sanford Health?** *Sanford Health offers various career advancement opportunities, including becoming a CNA, LPN, RN, charge nurse, or nurse manager.* 5. **What benefits does Sanford Health offer to its employees?** *Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, paid time off, retirement plan, life insurance, disability insurance, and more.* 6. **What is the culture like at Sanford Health?** *Sanford Health is committed to creating a culture of respect, integrity, teamwork, innovation, and excellence.* 7. **How can I apply for the Medication Assistant position at Sanford Health?** *Visit our career website and submit your application online.* 8. **Is prior experience in long-term care required for this position?** *Prior experience in long-term care is preferred but not always required. We provide training to new employees.* 9. **What is the dress code for Medication Assistants at Sanford Health?** *The dress code typically involves scrubs and comfortable, closed-toe shoes.* 10. **What is the Medication Assistant's role in emergency situations?** *Medication Assistants are trained to respond to resident emergencies, following established protocols and seeking assistance when needed.*