Improper Storage and Administration of Medications
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to properly store and administer medications according to policy and professional standards. Medications were observed left at the bedsides of four residents, with some residents stating they had not yet taken the medications, and in one case, a family member identified a specific pain medication left unattended. Additionally, pre-poured medications were found in a medication cart without any identifying labels, and the responsible nurse could not recall which medications were in the cup. The facility's Medication Administration Policy prohibits pre-pouring medications and requires that medications be administered as they are poured. Interviews with nursing staff and the Director of Nursing confirmed that medications should not be left at the bedside or in the cart and should be administered directly to residents. Medication administration records indicated that controlled substances and other prescribed medications were documented as given, despite being left unattended. These actions were observed for four residents, and staff acknowledged awareness of the correct procedures but did not follow them during the incidents.