Failure to Properly Store and Label Medications
Penalty
Summary
Surveyor observations revealed that drugs and biologicals were not stored and labeled according to professional standards in two of four medication carts inspected. Specifically, two Trelegy Ellipta inhalers were found opened and undated, despite manufacturer instructions requiring disposal six weeks after opening. Additionally, Morphine Sulfate and Lorazepam Intensol oral suspension were found opened and undated, with the Lorazepam not stored in the required refrigerated conditions. The pharmacy label and manufacturer instructions for these medications specify discard dates and storage requirements that were not followed. Staff present during these observations, including a Certified Medication Technician, an LPN, and an RN, acknowledged the deficiencies when interviewed by surveyors. The Director of Nursing Services also confirmed that medications should be dated when opened and that Lorazepam should be refrigerated. These findings were consistent with a community complaint alleging improper medication storage and administration.