Failure to Secure and Supervise Prescription Medications
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to properly secure prescription medications in multiple locations, including two of four treatment carts and one of four medication carts. On several occasions, treatment carts on different halls were found unlocked and contained prescription ointments, bandages, scissors, and other prescription medications. Additionally, a medication cart was observed unlocked and unattended, and prescription medications were left unattended on top of a medication cart. For three residents reviewed, medications were found left at the bedside or on over-bed tables without a nurse present. One resident and their family member confirmed that medications were sometimes left on the bedside table for the resident to take later. Another resident was observed with a cup of pills on the over-bed table while resting, with no nurse present. A third resident and their partner reported that nurses would leave medications at the bedside from time to time, and the partner would ensure the resident took the pills. Facility policy requires all drugs and biologicals to be stored in locked compartments and under direct observation during medication passes, which was not followed in these instances.