Failure to Properly Date and Store Insulin and Eye Drops
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to properly date opened multi-dose insulin for three residents and did not ensure that multi-dose eye drops were stored at the appropriate temperature for two residents. During inspections of medication carts and a medication room, opened Lantus insulin pens and vials were found without open dates, despite pharmacy labels indicating that insulin should be dated upon opening and discarded after 28 days. Additionally, unopened Latanoprost eye drops, which require refrigeration until opened, were found stored at room temperature in medication carts, contrary to pharmacy labeling and facility policy. Interviews with nursing staff, including an RN, an LPN, and the DON, confirmed that medications such as insulin and Latanoprost should be dated when opened and stored according to manufacturer and pharmacy recommendations. The facility's own policies and reference guides also specify proper storage temperatures and expiration dating for these medications. Physician order sheets for the affected residents documented active orders for Lantus insulin and Latanoprost eye drops, further confirming the need for proper medication management as outlined in the facility's procedures.