Lack of Drug Information Resources for Nursing Staff
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide drug information resources, such as a drug reference book or online access, for nursing staff to consult when administering medications. During interviews and record reviews, multiple nursing staff members, including a licensed nurse, a licensed psychiatric technician, and a registered nurse supervisor, confirmed that they did not have access to drug information resources in the medication cart, medication room, or via the internet. One nurse was unaware of the specific administration instructions for Linzess, a medication used to treat complicated constipation, and did not know it should be given on an empty stomach 30 minutes before meals. Staff also indicated that the Medication Administration Record (MAR) did not provide this information. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the facility did not have printed or online drug resources available for nursing staff. Review of the facility's policy on medication reference sources indicated that such resources should be maintained and accessible at each nursing station, but this was not being followed at the time of the survey.