Expired Biologicals and Unsecured Medication Carts Identified
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to ensure proper storage and labeling of drugs and biologicals in accordance with professional standards. Specifically, an open vial of tuberculin used for tuberculosis testing was found in the medication storage room refrigerator past its expiration date. The Director of Nursing Services (DNS) confirmed that the vial was expired and acknowledged that staff are expected to discard such vials within 30 days of opening, as per facility policy. Additionally, treatment carts in both the East Hall and another hall were repeatedly found unlocked and unattended during multiple observations. These carts contained medications and supplies such as insulin, insulin pens, needles, oral medications, dressings, creams, and tube feeding medications. Staff, including LPNs and RNs, acknowledged that the carts should have been locked when not in use or when staff were not present. The DNS also confirmed the expectation that medication and treatment carts remain locked when unattended.