Unsecured Medication Storage and Expired Medications Identified
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple instances where medication carts were left unlocked and unattended in hallways, with both staff and residents passing by. On several occasions, medication carts containing prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, antibiotics such as ceftriaxone, and insulin were found unlocked near resident rooms. Staff members, including a CMA and RNs, were noted to leave the carts unattended and unlocked, despite the expectation that medication carts should be locked when not in use. These observations were confirmed through interviews with staff, who acknowledged the expectation for secure storage. Additionally, the medication storage room was found to contain expired medications, including Vitamin A, Complete Women 50+ multi-vitamin with minerals, and L-Argine. A vial of Tubersol, used for tuberculosis testing, was also found opened without a documented open date, despite the requirement that it is only good for 30 days after opening. Staff confirmed the presence of expired medications and the lack of an open date on the Tubersol vial.