What Are the Medication Administration Requirements for DSPs in Ohio?
In Ohio, Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) can play a critical role in helping individuals with developmental disabilities manage their medications safely and effectively. But administering medications requires state-approved training and certification, and it’s not optional.
Whether you’re an agency employee or an independent provider, this blog will break down everything you need to know to legally administer medications as a DSP in Ohio.
Are DSPs Allowed to Administer Medications in Ohio?
Yes—but only if they complete Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) approved Medication Administration Training (MAT) and follow the rules outlined in OAC 5123:2-6.
DSPs cannot legally administer medications (including over-the-counter meds) unless they are certified under Ohio’s medication administration system and trained on the specific individual’s needs.
Ohio DSP Medication Administration Certification Levels
There are three certification categories depending on the type of medications administered:
Category 1: Medication Administration & Health Related Activities
- Covers oral pills, inhalers, eye drops, creams, patches, and 13 health-related activities, etc.
- The most common certification for Ohio DSPs.
- Requires a 14-hour training course, written test, and skills check-off.
- Supervised by a Registered Nurse Trainer.
Certification 1 can be taken remotely, then testing and skills in person.
Category 2: G-Tube and J-Tube Medications
- Additional certification for DSPs assisting individuals who receive food and medications through gastrointestinal/jejunostomy tubes.
- Requires a 4-hour supplemental course after completing Category 1.
Category 3: Injectable Medications (like insulin)
- Allows DSPs to administer subcutaneous injections, including insulin and injections for metabolic disorders.
- Requires a 4-hour advanced training, including individual-specific RN sign-off (delegated nursing oversight).
- DSP must demonstrate competency for each person they support.
Certification Requirements (All Categories)
To be eligible to take any Medication Administration course, a DSP must:
- Be 18 or older
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Have current First Aid and CPR certification
- Pass a BCII (and FBI if out of state in past 5 years) background check
- Be employed by, or working toward becoming, an approved provider
All trainings must be provided by a DODD-certified RN Trainer and verified through the Medication Administration Information System (MAIS).
How Long Does Certification Last?
- Initial certification is valid for 1 year.
- Renewal: After the first year, renewal is required annually with a refresher class and skills assessment for each category. This is typically 2 hours and can be taken remotely with a Zoom skills check.
- Certification is tied to individual-specific training for each person receiving medications.
Other Requirements Before Administering Medication
In addition to training and certification, DSPs must complete:
- Individual-Specific Training for each person they support
- RN Delegation Form documenting approval
- Medication Administration Record (MAR) documentation training
- Ongoing competency review and observation by RN Trainer
Failure to comply can result in loss of certification or serious legal consequences.
Can DSPs Administer PRN (As-Needed) Medications?
Yes, but only if certified and:
- There is a written physician’s order including when and how to give the PRN.
- A Nurse Trainer has signed off, and the DSP is trained on when it’s appropriate.
- It’s documented properly in the MAR.
DSPs must not use judgment to decide when to give PRNs unless specifically trained and delegated to do so.
What DSPs Are NOT Allowed to Do
Without the appropriate training and certification, DSPs may not:
- Administer any prescription or OTC medications (unless certified under Category 1)
- Give injections (unless certified under Category 3)
- Change medication doses
- Administer rectal or vaginal meds
- Apply treatments that require assessment or sterile technique
Tips for Success as a Med-Certified DSP
- Keep your certifications current—renew early!
- Double-check MAR entries for accuracy daily.
- Use gloves and universal precautions every time.
- Always follow individual-specific instructions and call your RN Trainer if unsure.
- Stay organized—med errors happen when DSPs are rushed or distracted.
💬 Common Questions
Q: Can I take the medication training online?
A: Portions may be done online, but skills check-offs and testing must be in person with a DODD-certified RN Trainer.
Q: What happens if I miss my renewal date?
A: You may not legally give medications until you’re retrained and recertified.
Q: Can I give Tylenol without certification?
A: No. Even over-the-counter medications require certification and a physician’s order.
Take the Next Step
If you’re ready to increase your value as a DSP, medication administration certification is one of the most important steps you can take. It opens up more job opportunities, increases your earning potential, and helps you support clients safely and effectively.