Medications Improperly Stored at Bedside
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to ensure that all medications and biologicals were stored in locked, temperature-controlled compartments as required. During an observation, a resident was found with multiple medications, including medicated spray, Desitin, Pepto Bismol, liquid pectate, severe congestion liquid medication, and cough syrup, left out in the open on the over-the-bed table in the resident's room. The resident stated that these medications were kept at the bedside because staff refused to retrieve them, and that a family member had purchased and brought the medications to the facility. The DON confirmed the presence of these medications during a follow-up observation and noted that staff had not reported this situation. The attending physician was aware of the medications at the bedside and had discussed the issue with the resident and administration multiple times, but proper storage was not ensured. These findings were reviewed with the Nursing Home Administrator and Clinical Services Director.