Recurring Medication Storage Deficiency Due to Inadequate Labeling and Oversight
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective process to prevent recurring medication storage issues, as evidenced by the observation of a multiple dose liquid medication bottle on a medication cart that was not properly labeled with an open date. The bottle, marked 'NOT OPEN' in black marker, was found to have been opened and used, with a punctured inner seal and visible red liquid residue. Review of the resident's record revealed that the medication had been discontinued and did not have an active order. This incident was cited under F0761 for improper labeling and storage of drugs and biologicals. Additionally, the facility had a history of similar citations for the same deficiency on multiple previous survey dates. During an interview, the DON confirmed that there was no current improvement plan specifically addressing medication storage, although routine audits were being conducted and results reported in QAPI meetings.