CS/HB 1551 - Medication Technicians

• Defines "medication technician" as unlicensed staff members who have completed 6 hours of training and may assist residents with self-administration of medications and use of point-of-care devices

• Requires medication technicians to complete a minimum of 6 hours of initial training provided by a registered nurse or licensed pharmacist

• Mandates 2 hours of continuing education annually for medication technicians after initial training

• Specifies training must address infection control, safe handling and use of point-of-care devices, communication with case managers and health care providers, standard of care protocols, nursing standards identification, and methods of assisting residents with medication self-administration

• Takes effect July 1, 2021