Medication Storage, Security, and Labeling Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified multiple deficiencies related to the storage, labeling, and security of drugs and biologicals. One medication cart was observed unlocked and unattended in a hallway, accessible to unauthorized individuals, while the responsible LPN was not in direct line of sight. Additionally, a prepared cup of MiraLax was left unsecured on top of a medication cart while the nurse left the area, leaving the medication unattended and accessible. Expired medications and medical supplies were found in both the central supply storeroom and the treatment cart. Items such as gastrostomy feeding tubes, dressing change trays, infusion sets, IV start kits, suction catheters, packing strip dressings, and various wound care supplies were all past their expiration dates. Some items were also found opened, compromising their sterility and cleanliness, including dressings and cotton-tipped applicators spilling from open packaging. A multi-dose vial of Lantus insulin was found in use without an open or discard date, contrary to facility policy and accepted pharmaceutical practices. The DON and Administrator confirmed that these practices did not meet facility expectations, as expired and opened items should have been removed from use, and multi-dose vials should have been properly dated.