Unattended Unlocked Medication Cart Found in Hallway
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency occurred when a medication cart on [NAME] Hall was found unlocked and unattended near the nurse's station and hallway entrance. The state surveyor observed that the locking mechanism was protruding outward, and the drawers containing medications and biologicals could be opened. No nursing or other staff were present in the area at the time of observation. RN A later confirmed that he had left the cart unlocked while assisting with a resident transfer in a room where the cart was not visible. He acknowledged that the cart should have been locked at all times except when dispensing medications and that it was his responsibility to ensure its security. The key to the cart was in his pocket, and he stated that narcotics, PRN medications, a glucose monitor, and a blood pressure cuff were stored in the cart. Interviews with the Director of Nurses and the Administrator confirmed that their expectation was for all medication carts to be locked when not in use and that staff had been in-serviced on this policy, though neither could recall the specific date of the in-service. Both acknowledged that leaving the cart unlocked could allow residents, staff, or visitors access to medications. Review of the facility's policy indicated that medications and biologicals are to be stored securely and only accessible to authorized personnel, with medication carts to be locked or attended at all times.