Medication Cart Left Unlocked and Unattended
Penalty
Summary
A medication cart was observed unlocked, unattended, and not under the direct observation of authorized staff. The lock was in the out position, allowing anyone to open the drawers and access various multi-dose bottles of over-the-counter medications, as well as residents' routine and PRN medications and medication blister packs. During this time, a resident was seen ambulating back and forth in the hallway near the unattended cart. The medication technician responsible for the cart was not present at the cart and was observed returning from approximately twenty-five feet away. During an interview, the medication technician acknowledged that she should not have left the medication cart unlocked and unattended, stating that she was aware of the policy and had received training during new hire orientation. The facility's policy requires that medication carts remain locked when not in use or not attended by authorized personnel, and only licensed nurses, pharmacy staff, and those lawfully authorized are permitted access to the carts.