Failure to Properly Label and Store Insulin Pens
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified that the facility failed to ensure proper labeling and storage of insulin pens for three residents with diabetes mellitus. Medical record reviews and observations revealed that insulin pens for these residents were not dated when removed from refrigeration or placed in the medication cart, as required by professional standards. Interviews with LPNs confirmed that the insulin pens were not dated, and staff acknowledged that insulin is to be dated upon removal from refrigeration or when placed in the medication cart. Further interviews with the Director of Nursing and the consulting pharmacist confirmed the expectation that insulin should be dated when removed from refrigerated storage or first used. The Director of Nursing also confirmed that the facility did not have a policy specific to the storage and dating of insulin. These findings were based on direct observation, staff interviews, and review of medical records and physician orders for the affected residents.