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Exam Information
Official specifications published by Academic Testing
Exam Format
60
Entry-Level Professional
Registration
$80 USD
Online Proctored, Credentia Test Centers, or online proctoring
English
Validity
Varies by state
State-specific recertification requirements; Continuing education may be required; Contact state Board of Nursing for renewal requirements
MACE Exam Topics and Domains
MACE is organized into 3 weighted domains. Expect to work with ACE inhibitors, Acetaminophen, Albuterol, Antibiotic ointments, and more.
1
Authorized Duties
16%
Building Relationships
Therapeutic CommunicationPatient Rights and Dignity
- Demonstrate effective communication with patients and healthcare team members
- Recognize and respect patient rights during medication administration
Delegation
Understanding Delegation ProcessAccountability in Delegated Tasks
- Understand the principles of delegation in medication administration
- Recognize appropriate delegation scenarios and limitations
Role of MA-C (Medication Aide-Certified)
Permitted DutiesRestrictions and Limitations
- Identify permitted duties of a certified medication aide
- Recognize restrictions and limitations of the MA-C role
- Understand when to defer to licensed nursing staff
Specific Legal and Ethical Issues
Legal FrameworkEthical PrinciplesAbuse and Neglect Recognition
- Understand legal framework governing medication aide practice
- Apply ethical principles to medication administration scenarios
- Recognize and appropriately report suspected abuse or neglect
Location and Use of Resources and References
Human ResourcesWritten Resources
- Identify appropriate resources for medication information
- Know when and how to consult human and written resources
- Utilize drug references effectively
2
Medication Administration, Observation and Reporting
60%
Administering and Charting Medications
Medication OrdersDocumentation of Medication AdministrationStorageDisposal
- Interpret and verify medication orders accurately
- Document medication administration completely and timely
- Store medications according to safety and stability requirements
- Dispose of medications safely and in compliance with regulations
Safety and Rights of Medication Administration
Six Rights of Medication AdministrationAdditional Safety Principles
- Apply the Six Rights consistently in medication administration
- Implement safety checks to prevent medication errors
- Respect patient rights in the medication process
Routes of Administration
Oral RouteTopical RouteRectal and Vaginal RoutesInhalation RouteRoutes Outside MA-C Scope
- Demonstrate proper technique for each approved administration route
- Recognize routes of administration outside MA-C scope
- Maintain patient safety and dignity during all routes of administration
Factors Affecting How the Body Uses Medication
Pharmacokinetics BasicsPatient-Specific FactorsExternal Factors
- Understand basic pharmacokinetic principles
- Recognize patient factors affecting medication response
- Identify common medication interactions
Classifications/Categories of Medications
Cardiovascular MedicationsEndocrine MedicationsGastrointestinal MedicationsRespiratory MedicationsCentral Nervous System MedicationsAntimicrobial MedicationsDermatological Medications
- Identify major medication classifications and their therapeutic purposes
- Recognize common medications within each category
- Understand basic actions and side effects of medication classes
Rights of Individuals
Patient Rights in Medication AdministrationRespecting Autonomy
- Uphold patient rights throughout the medication administration process
- Respect patient autonomy and informed decision-making
- Maintain patient dignity and privacy
Causes and Reporting of Medication Errors
Types and Causes of Medication ErrorsReporting Medication Errors
- Identify common causes of medication errors
- Take appropriate action when an error occurs
- Report medication errors promptly and completely
Reporting of Symptoms and Side Effects
Recognizing Adverse Drug ReactionsReporting Observations
- Recognize common and serious medication side effects
- Differentiate therapeutic effects from adverse reactions
- Report medication-related observations promptly and accurately
Reporting Any Change from Client's Normal Condition
Baseline Assessment and MonitoringUrgent Condition Recognition
- Observe and report changes in patient condition
- Recognize urgent situations requiring immediate intervention
- Communicate patient status changes effectively to nursing staff
3
Medication Concepts and Measurements
24%
Medication Concepts
Terminology and AbbreviationsDosage RangeActions and ImplicationsTherapeutic and Other Side EffectsPrecautionsInteractions
- Interpret medication terminology and abbreviations correctly
- Understand dosage ranges and when to question orders
- Recognize medication actions, side effects, and interactions
- Apply precautions and contraindications in medication administration
Forms of Medication
Liquid FormsSolid and Semi-solid Forms
- Identify different medication forms and their characteristics
- Determine appropriate handling for each medication form
- Understand which forms can be altered (crushed, split) and which cannot
Measurements
Measurement SystemsDose CalculationsMeasurement Tools
- Understand metric and household measurement systems
- Perform basic dose calculations accurately
- Use measurement tools correctly to ensure dose accuracy
How do I earn this certification?
Passing MACE earns the Certified Medication Aide (MA-C) certification. It sits in the Nursing Support track.
Next Level Options
- Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Natural progression to licensed nursing role with expanded scope
- Registered Nurse (RN) Advanced nursing career path with full nursing scope of practice
- Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) Transition to outpatient/clinic setting with medication administration skills
Alternative Paths
- Certified Phlebotomy Technician Complementary healthcare skill for medication aides
- CPR/First Aid Certification Essential safety certification for healthcare workers
- Dementia Care Certification Specialized knowledge for memory care units
- Restorative Nursing Assistant Advanced CNA specialization complementing medication aide role
Practice with Precision
The PlanetCert Simulator mirrors the real exam environment with authentic questions and timed pressure.
How to study for this exam?
The most effective way to prepare for MACE is by using the PlanetCert Simulator to practice questions and review detailed explanations.
What's changed on this exam?
Current Status
- ACTIVE
- Last content update: 2025-10-24
Updates
- Online Proctored Testing Expanded access to MACE exam for remote and rural candidates
- Electronic Medication Administration Records (eMAR) While traditional MAR documentation is tested, familiarity with eMAR systems is increasingly important for MA-C practice
- Automated Medication Dispensing Systems Understanding of medication storage and security principles applies to both traditional and automated systems
Who should take this exam?
Current Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) certification
Completion of state-approved medication aide training program
Employment or offer of employment in Medicaid-certified nursing facility (varies by state)
- Basic understanding of medical terminology
- Experience as a CNA in long-term care setting
- Familiarity with medication administration procedures