Medication Cart Left Unlocked and Unattended by LVN
Penalty
Summary
A medication cart on the second hallway was observed left unattended and unlocked by an LVN during a medication pass. The LVN stated in an interview that she had left the cart unsecured while checking on a resident, which she claimed was not her usual practice. She acknowledged that leaving the cart unlocked could allow unauthorized access to medications, potentially leading to misappropriation or misuse. The Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed that the LVN was a relatively new staff member and emphasized the importance of securing medication carts at all times. The facility's policy requires that medication carts be locked if left unattended, even in emergencies. The DON also described oversight measures in place, including random checks and daily monitoring by the MDS nurse, but the incident demonstrated a failure to adhere to these protocols.