Improper Storage and Security of Medications and Biologicals
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to properly store and secure medications and biologicals as required. In one instance, a narcotic medication, Methadone 115mg, was left on a resident's bedside table after a staff member administered care, rather than ensuring the medication was taken or following an order to leave it at bedside. The staff member acknowledged that leaving the medication unattended was not appropriate. The Director of Nursing confirmed that medications should not be left at the bedside unless specifically ordered. Additionally, a treatment cart was observed unlocked and unattended in a hallway, allowing access to various prescription creams, ointments, and other medications. The cart contained expired items, including iodoform packing strips and Nystatin Zinc tubs, as well as an opened bottle of Dakins solution without a cap. An agency nurse present at the time stated she had not checked the cart that morning. Facility policy requires that only authorized personnel have access to locked compartments, and both the Director of Nursing and Assistant Director of Nursing confirmed the cart should have been locked.