Are CNAs allowed to administer medications?

• A. Yes, under supervision.
• B. No. CNAs do not administer medications; they observe and report effects to the nurse.
• C. They can administer vitamins only.
• D. They can adjust dosages.

Answer: (B)

CNAs do not administer medications. Their role around meds is safety-focused: they observe how a patient responds after a medication is given by a licensed professional, look for effectiveness or side effects, and promptly report anything unusual to the nurse. This division exists because giving medications requires specific training, oversight, and accountability to ensure correct dosing, timing, dosage form, and potential interactions. In practice, CNAs may assist with the medication process by preparing the patient and ensuring they’re ready, but the actual administration is handled by licensed staff. Vitamins and other nonprescription items are still medications in many settings, so they’re not administered by CNAs either.