Who is authorized to administer medications after completing a DHSS-approved course?

• A. A nursing assistant who has completed the course
• B. A licensed practical nurse
• C. A physician
• D. A pharmacist

Answer: (A)

In this context, the ability to administer medications after completing a DHSS-approved course is reserved for unlicensed assistive personnel who have earned that specific credential. A nursing assistant who finishes the DHSS-approved medication administration course is certified to administer medications under supervision in eligible settings. This course verifies they can handle meds safely, know basic administration procedures, and recognize when to report issues to a supervisor.

Licensed practical nurses already have medication administration authority through their licensure, not this course. Physicians and pharmacists have their own professional authorities and do not rely on completing this particular course to administer medications. So the nursing assistant who completed the DHSS-approved course is the one authorized in this scenario.