Improper Storage and Security of Narcotics and Expired Medication
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to ensure proper storage and security of drugs and biologicals in the North medication room. Specifically, a narcotic box containing multidose anti-anxiety medication was found inside an unlocked refrigerator and was not permanently affixed, contrary to accepted professional standards. The box was locked, but it was removable and had never been secured to the refrigerator. Staff, including an LPN and the DON, confirmed that the narcotic box had always been removable and that the medication room and box were locked, with narcotics counted at each shift change. However, the facility's policy did not address the requirement for the narcotic box to be permanently affixed. Additionally, an expired bottle of anti-angina medication was discovered in a tackle-style box above the narcotic refrigerator. The LPN stated that the medication had been left in the old emergency kit and should have been disposed of when the kit was changed out. Both the DON and the Administrator acknowledged that the expired medication should not have been left in the storage area, as it could have been accidentally administered. The facility's policy required discontinued medications to be stored centrally for destruction, but this was not followed in this instance.