Pharmacist's Medication Administration Recommendation Not Implemented
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a pharmacist consultant's recommendation regarding the administration of alendronate for a resident with osteoporosis was implemented. The pharmacist consultant had recommended that the administration record for alendronate include specific instructions: to administer the intact tablet at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or medication of the day with 6 to 8 ounces of plain water, and to ensure the individual does not lie down for at least 30 minutes and until after the first food of the day. Review of the resident's administration record showed that these instructions were not included as recommended. The director of nursing confirmed during an interview that the recommendation was not acted upon, despite facility policy requiring staff to address all medication regimen review recommendations.