Medication Storage and Labeling Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in the facility's medication storage and labeling practices. An open container of glucometer test strips was found on a medication cart without an open date, despite manufacturer instructions requiring use within six months of opening. The nurse present confirmed the omission and was unable to state the allowable usage period after opening. Additionally, an eye drop medication (latanoprost) stored in the medication room refrigerator was labeled with an open date that was not legible and predated the refill date, making it impossible to determine if it was still safe for use. The Assistant Director of Nursing confirmed that the medication should be used within six weeks of opening and that the observed container had exceeded this period. Further, keys to the controlled substance cabinets and refrigerator were found unsecured, hanging in a plastic bag on the wall of the medication storage room. A nurse confirmed that these keys provided access to controlled substances and were not secured as required. The Director of Nursing acknowledged that these practices did not comply with facility policy, which mandates that all drugs and biologicals be stored in locked compartments and that only authorized personnel have access to them. The policy also requires proper labeling of all medication containers and the return or destruction of outdated or improperly labeled drugs.