Failure to Secure Medication Storage Areas
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to ensure proper storage of medications in the first floor medication room. On observation, the medication room containing the Emergency Drug Kit (EDK) was found unlocked, and within the room, both the treatment cart and the medication refrigerator, which contained insulin, suppositories, and other cold medications, were also unlocked. During the observation, a Qualified Medication Aide (QMA) confirmed that the medication room, treatment cart, and medication refrigerator were all supposed to be locked. Review of the facility's current Medication Storage policy indicated that all medications and biologicals, including treatment items, should be securely stored in locked compartments or rooms inaccessible to residents and visitors.