Unsecured Medication Cart Found Unattended on Hall A
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when the medication cart on the 3rd floor Hall A was found to be unattended and not properly secured. Observation revealed that although the locking mechanism on the cart was engaged, each drawer could be opened when pulled, allowing access to both prescribed and over-the-counter medications. The LVN responsible for the cart was seated at the nurse's station and, upon inspection, confirmed that the drawers were not secured. The LVN acknowledged responsibility for ensuring the cart was locked and suggested that a slightly ajar drawer may have prevented the lock from engaging properly. Interviews with the LVN, ADON, and DON confirmed that only authorized personnel should have access to medications and that the cart should be locked or attended at all times. The facility's policy requires all drugs and biologicals to be stored in locked compartments accessible only to licensed or authorized staff. The failure to secure the medication cart meant that medications were accessible to unauthorized individuals, contrary to facility policy and accepted professional standards.