Failure to Secure Residents' Health Information on Medication Cart
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of residents' personal and medical records as required by its own policy. During an observation, sensitive health information was found displayed on the computer screen of a medication cart located in the 100 hall. Additionally, a written shift-to-shift communication sheet containing residents' names and various medical conditions was stored on top of the same medication cart. Both the computer screen and the communication sheet were left unattended and visible, making the information accessible to unauthorized individuals. The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) assigned to the cart left the area without securing or covering the residents' personal and confidential medical information. Upon returning briefly to the cart, the LPN again failed to ensure the information was protected before leaving the cart unattended. The Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) confirmed during an interview that the residents' sensitive health information was not secured and acknowledged that it was available for public viewing.