Improper Labeling and Storage of Insulin Products
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to ensure drugs and biologicals were labeled and stored according to accepted professional principles. Specifically, during an inspection of a medication cart, an opened vial of insulin lispro for one resident was found with an open date, and staff stated it was still within the 30-day usage period. However, both the LPN and DON later clarified that insulin should be used within 28 days of opening and must be dated accordingly. Additionally, three unopened insulin auto injector pens, including a Humalog kwikpen labeled for refrigeration, were found stored in the medication cart instead of the medication refrigerator. The LPN confirmed that unopened insulin should be refrigerated and that extra supplies would typically be stored in the medication fridge. Interviews with staff, including two LPNs and the DON, revealed inconsistent understanding and application of insulin storage and labeling protocols. The DON confirmed that unopened insulin should be refrigerated and that opened insulin should be dated and used within 28 days. The observed deficiencies involved two residents, one of whom was a type 1 diabetic using an insulin pump and requiring frequent blood glucose monitoring. The improper storage and labeling of insulin products were directly observed and verified by staff during the survey.