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Medication Assistance (Under Review)

Document Type: HCA Policy
Effective: March 23, 2026

Overview

This policy is currently being reviewed.

This policy outlines the role of HCAs in supporting safe medication practices by assisting clients with their medications, including observing and reporting, preparing and administering medications, documenting support and outcomes, and following care plans, all under the direction of a regulated health professional to ensure safe and effective client care.

Last Revision

March 2026 – Updated to include additional guidance on controlled substances (page 8), including safe storage practices, employer and medication assistance requirements, and care plan–driven considerations in home environments. Clarified that HCAs must follow employer and applicable medication assistance requirements and seek guidance from authorized supervising health professionals.

March 2026 – Updated to clarify the need for clients to have intact memory, cognition, and communication abilities to manage their medications safely in certain circumstances in the Levels of Medication Assistance section, Level 1 and Level 2, and to the PRN (As-Needed Medications) section.

Relevant Resources