Deficient Medication Labeling and Storage Practices
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors identified multiple deficiencies related to the labeling and storage of drugs and biologicals. For one resident, full strength Dakins Solution, an antiseptic, was repeatedly observed stored in the resident's room rather than in a locked compartment as required. Interviews with nursing staff and management confirmed that antiseptics should not be left in resident rooms and must be stored securely in treatment carts when not in use. On one unit, a medication cart was found unlocked and unattended in a hallway, with a drawer left ajar. A resident was observed walking independently in the area, and no staff were present. Nursing staff acknowledged that medication carts should be locked when not in direct view of staff, and management confirmed this expectation. Additionally, three of four medication carts reviewed contained medications not stored according to professional standards. Surveyors found multiple loose, unidentified pills in several drawers, and several vials of insulin and inhalers that were in use but not labeled with the date opened. Nursing staff and management interviews revealed a lack of awareness or adherence to labeling requirements, with some staff unaware that opened medications needed to be dated and others confirming that all medications should be labeled with opening and ending dates prior to use.