Improper Storage and Disposal of Medications and Medical Supplies
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that medical supplies and medications were properly stored and disposed of in two out of three medication rooms, as required by facility policy and regulatory standards. During observations, multiple expired medical supplies and medications were found in both the Secure Care Unit and Dogwood Unit medication rooms. Items identified included expired calcium alginate dressings, gelling fiber dressings, a latex Foley catheter, Bacitracin zinc ointment, and various other medical supplies and medications with expiration dates ranging from 2021 to 2025. Additionally, the facility policy required contacting the dispensing pharmacy for instructions regarding the return or destruction of discontinued, outdated, or deteriorated medications or biologicals, but this was not followed as evidenced by the presence of these expired items. Further, in the Dogwood medication room, personal belongings of former residents, such as hearing aids, eyeglasses, a cell phone, and other miscellaneous articles, were found stored under the sink. These items belonged to residents who had been discharged from the facility as far back as 2020. The Director of Nursing confirmed during an interview that the facility did not ensure proper storage or disposal of medical supplies, medications, and personal items in the medication rooms.