Improper Storage and Labeling of Medications
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that medications and biologicals were not properly stored or labeled in multiple medication and treatment carts throughout the facility. Specifically, loose pills of various types and unidentified medications were found in several medication carts, with no identifying information such as resident name or medication label. Liquid medications and creams were also found without open dates or proper labeling, and expired medications were present in the carts. Additionally, medication drawers were noted to be unclean, with sticky residues and dried drippings observed. These findings were consistent across four medication carts and one treatment cart. Interviews with staff revealed a lack of knowledge and training regarding the facility's policies for checking and labeling medications. Some staff members were unaware of how often to check the carts or how to identify and handle unlabeled or expired medications. Facility policies provided by the administrator indicated that medications should be labeled with open dates and checked regularly for expiration, but these procedures were not being followed as evidenced by the observations and staff interviews.