Improper Storage and Labeling of Medications and Supplies
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to ensure proper storage and labeling of medications and biologicals across multiple units, medication carts, and the medication room. Observations revealed that medications, including nasal sprays and insulin pens, were not dated upon opening, and expired medications and supplies were not removed from storage areas. For example, one medication cart contained nasal sprays and an insulin pen without documented open dates, and another cart had expired blood pressure medications and medicated creams stored alongside inhaled medications. The medication room also contained expired vitamins, syringes, needles, and an intravenous device stabilizer. Additionally, staff did not follow facility policy or physician orders regarding the storage of medications at residents' bedsides. Several residents were observed with medications and medical supplies, such as topical pain-relieving patches, anti-fungal creams, powders, and tube feeding formula, left unsecured in their rooms or on their nightstands. In these cases, there were no physician orders permitting bedside storage, and some items were not labeled with the resident's name or the date and time of opening, as required by policy. Interviews with nursing staff and facility leadership confirmed that these practices were inconsistent with facility policies and professional standards. Staff acknowledged that medications and supplies should be dated, stored in locked carts or rooms, and removed upon expiration. They also stated that wound care supplies and medications should not be left in resident rooms to prevent contamination and ensure resident safety.