Failure to Label and Secure Medications and IV Infusions
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple instances where medications and biologicals were not properly labeled or securely stored. In one case, a resident had an IV pole at bedside with a Zosyn infusion bag and tubing that were not labeled with the date or time. Similar deficiencies were noted with another resident, where both the IV medication bag and tubing lacked required labeling. Additionally, topical medications such as CeraVe eczema relief cream and Germa Ubre Plus analgesic ointment were found unsecured on bedside tables, accessible to residents without proper authorization or assessment for self-administration. Interviews with staff confirmed that IV medications should be labeled with the date and time, and that residents require a self-administration assessment and physician approval to keep medications at bedside. Facility policies reviewed by surveyors also required labeling of IV tubing and medications in accordance with professional standards and federal regulations. The observed failures to label and secure medications were not in compliance with these policies and accepted standards of practice.