Improper Labeling and Storage of Medication
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that a multi-dose vial of Applisol purified protein derivative (PPD) Tuberculosis (TB) was found in the 300 Hall medication cart with a box labeled only with the date '7/10.' The nurse responsible for the cart was unable to clarify whether this date represented the date the vial was opened or the discard date. The nurse confirmed that the labeling was unclear and acknowledged that the vial should have been labeled with both an open and discard date. Additionally, the nurse stated that the medication should have been stored in the medication refrigerator, and that storing it outside the recommended temperature would render it unsafe for administration. Facility policy requires that drugs and biologicals be stored in locked compartments under proper temperature, light, and humidity controls.