Improper Storage and Labeling of Medications
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to ensure drugs and biologicals were stored and labeled according to accepted professional principles. During an inspection of medication carts, one cart was found to contain five unidentified and loose tablets in two separate drawers. Additionally, two inhalers—Albuterol and Trelegy Ellipta—were found opened and in use without being labeled with the date they were opened. The LPN present confirmed the presence of the loose, unidentified tablets and acknowledged that the inhalers had been opened and used without proper labeling. The facility's contract pharmacist verified that both types of inhalers require labeling with the date opened to ensure timely disposal according to manufacturer guidelines.