I'm pretty sure you can answer this one Tracy-What is the difference between the two? That is in terms of training (how long),duties and pay. And what exactly is this new title I am seeing,"Certified Medication Assistant", and why is it always aimed at CNAs only?

A Certified Medication Assistant is a CNA who has worked in long term care (ie_ nursing home) and has passed a test in order to pass routine meds. They are certified by the state board of nursing and have recertify every 2 years ( I think its every 2). A STNA could mean a student nurse or a nursing assistant who has work in a nursing home for a few years and functions as a team leader. Or it could mean a student nursing assistant.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: MA, DT, CNA

Are You Still In School? yes

I'm guessing STNA is state tested nursing Aide. I think it depends on where you are in terms of what term they use. What type of jobs are you looking at where they are looking for CNA's? Is it hospital or nursing home?
CNA's have specified training in assisting patients with their activities of daily living. They are trained in bathing, dressing, range of motion excercises, emptying catheters and measuring I&O, oral care, making hospital beds, those types of things. It is a different type of training.
CNA courses are offerd at many places. Most schools offer 8 week programs which is something one may consider to do over the summer between CMA classes. It is a quick program and one can be state certified in a matter of weeks. This would allow you to work in the healthcare field while finishing up MA studies.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: RMA/LPN

Are You Still In School? yes

Are You Working? yes

An STNA is a state tested nurse assistant. A CNA is a certified nurse assistant. They are EXACTLY the same; they are simply called STNAs in California and, I think, a couple other states.

CNAs absolutely CANNOT administer meds without additional training, testing, and certification: the certified medication aide (CMA). In my state only CNAs who hold an unencumbered certification for at least one year are qualified to take the medication aide course.

Your Professional Title/Credentials: CNA