Improper Disposal of Medications by LPN
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) failed to properly dispose of medications in accordance with accepted professional principles and facility policy. During a medication pass, the LPN poured one tablet of aspirin 81 mg and one tablet of clopidogrel 75 mg, but the cup containing the tablets spilled, causing the tablets to land on top of the medication cart. The LPN then picked up the spilled tablets with her gloved hand, turned the glove inside-out, and disposed of it in the trash can, rather than using the designated medication disposal solution. When questioned by the surveyor, the LPN acknowledged the correct procedure was to use the Drug-Buster solution, which was available in the medication cart, but admitted to discarding the medications in the trash. The Director of Nursing confirmed that the Drug-Buster solution should be used for medication disposal, emphasizing its importance in preventing unauthorized access to medications. Review of facility policy indicated that nursing staff are responsible for maintaining medication storage and preparation areas in a clean, safe, and sanitary manner.