Medication Storage and Security Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified multiple failures in the facility's medication management practices. Medication Storage Room A was found to contain personal items such as a staff member's sweater, desk fans, a resident's box of candies, and a large stuffed toy, all stored alongside medication supplies. An opened diaper package was found near the sink, and both oral and external medications, such as bisacodyl suppositories and saline enema laxatives, were stored together with oral medications. In the medication refrigerator, latanoprost ophthalmic medication was stored with Tubersol injectable solution, and a collection of clear liquid was observed in the freezer basin. These findings were acknowledged and verified by the Director of Staff Development (DSD). Further inspection of Medication Carts A and B revealed additional issues. Medication Cart B was found unlocked and unattended, and contained items with dried residues, such as forceps and wound skin cleanser, as well as unsealed gauze sponges and a bottle of baby powder with dried residue. Medication Cart A contained both oral and external medications stored together, an opened bottle of latanoprost ophthalmic solution without an opened date, and discontinued medications stored in the narcotic locked drawer. The DSD and Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed these findings, which were not in accordance with the facility's policies for medication storage, labeling, and disposal.