Medication and IV Supply Storage Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to adhere to professional standards and manufacturer recommendations for the storage and labeling of medications and biologicals. Specifically, the facility did not label opened multi-dose medication vials with an open date, as observed with a vial of Acetylcysteine Solution 10% in the medication refrigerator on the First Floor Nursing Unit. This vial was opened but not dated, contrary to the manufacturer's instructions that require the solution to be discarded after 96 hours of opening. This oversight was confirmed by both an LPN and the Director of Nursing during interviews. Additionally, the facility did not ensure that expired intravenous (IV) supplies were removed from availability for resident use. During an inspection of the medication room on the First Floor Nursing Unit, expired IV supplies, including two Intravenous Winged Infusion Sets and one BD Safety IV Catheter Insertion Kit, were found. The expiration dates on these supplies had passed, and their presence was confirmed by the Director of Nursing. These findings indicate a failure to comply with the facility's Medication Storage and Labeling policy and relevant state regulations.