Improper Storage of Medications and Biologicals
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to properly store medical supplies and biologicals, as evidenced by several observations during a survey. On the North Front medication cart, the narcotic lock box was found unlocked, and an expired insulin Lispro pen was stored on the cart. This was confirmed by a Registered Nurse (RN) during the survey. Additionally, on the West medication cart, an insulin Lantus pen was found with the resident's name blackened out, making it impossible to determine the owner of the medication. This was confirmed by a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). In the North Hall medication room, an opened bottle of Elmo Pio sweet peach wine was found in the refrigerator without a label indicating the name or date it was opened. This was confirmed by an LPN, who acknowledged the failure to properly store medical supplies and biologicals. The Director of Nursing also confirmed the facility's failure to properly store medical supplies in two of the four medication carts. These deficiencies indicate non-compliance with the facility's policy on the storage of medications and the relevant state and federal regulations.
Plan Of Correction
All items listed were removed and disposed of. The pharmacy came in and serviced the narcotic lock on the medication cart at the time of survey. All carts and medication rooms were audited for expired medications and biologicals. Medications were checked for proper labeling, and narcotic boxes were checked to ensure locks were working correctly at the time of survey. The DON or designee will educate all licensed staff on the process of contacting the pharmacy for medication cart locking issues, disposing of expired medications and biologicals, and proper labeling of medications. The DON or designee will audit all medication rooms and carts for properly labeled or expired medications and biologicals, and proper locking of medication carts. Audits will be completed daily x3 and then weekly x 8. All results to be reviewed through QAPI for further recommendation.