Expired Medications and Supplies Found in Medication Storage Areas
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that medications and supplies in the medication room and on medication carts were not consistently stored within their expiration dates. During a medication room inspection with an LPN present, 12 unopened bottles of Aspirin 81 mg were found to be expired. The LPN stated she believed the DON had overlooked these items. Additionally, a check of two medication carts with a CMA present revealed an expired, empty syringe and an opened bottle of expired Aspirin 81 mg filled to the rim. The CMA was informed of the expired items at the time of the observation. Staff interviews indicated a lack of consistent oversight regarding expired items. One LPN denied having issues with expired items, stating that if expired items are found, they are usually treatment supplies that are rarely used and are discarded when noticed. The DON reported that she attempts to review the medication room and that the pharmacy conducts monthly checks, with staff also reviewing medications and supplies as they are put away. The facility's policy requires all drugs and biologicals to be stored in a safe, secure, and orderly manner.