Expired Medications and Improper Storage of Controlled Substances
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure proper storage and labeling of drugs and biologicals, as evidenced by the presence of expired insulin pens and vials on two of four medication carts reviewed. Observations revealed that some insulin pens were missing resident names, open dates, and expiration dates, and some vials were past their expiration dates but remained in use. Additionally, some insulin vials were not labeled with the date they were opened, and unopened vials that required refrigeration were not stored as directed. Staff interviews confirmed that these insulins were expired and should not have been used, and that labeling and storage practices did not align with facility policy. Further deficiencies were identified in the medication rooms, where both the North Hall and South Hall medication room refrigerators were found unlocked, and the narcotic lock boxes inside were not affixed to the shelving as required. The narcotic lock boxes contained multiple vials of lorazepam, a Schedule IV controlled substance. The South Hall medication room refrigerator was also noted to be dirty, with debris and a yellowish sticky substance present. Staff confirmed these findings and acknowledged that the refrigerators should have been locked and the narcotic boxes properly secured.