Failure to Securely Store and Properly Dispose of Medications
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that medications and biologicals were properly labeled and securely stored, as required by professional standards and facility policy. During observations, multiple residents were found with medications, such as micronazole nitrate, eye drops, antifungal cream, and nystatin powder, left unsecured on their bedside tables. None of these residents had been assessed for self-administration of medications, and there were no orders or documentation supporting their ability to self-administer. Additionally, some of the medications were not labeled with the resident's name, and at least one resident denied ownership of the medication found at their bedside. Further review revealed that the facility did not follow its own policy for the destruction of controlled substances. A controlled substance destruction record was missing the required second nurse signature, as mandated by facility policy, which states that two licensed nurses must be present and sign off during the disposal of controlled substances. The DON acknowledged that the process was not followed as the ADON forgot to sign the record.