Expired Supplements Found in Medication Storage Room
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to store over-the-counter medications and supplements in accordance with accepted professional principles in the medication storage room of the secure Co-ed unit. Specifically, four expired supplemental shakes with expiration dates of 09/10/2025 were found on the counter during an observation. When questioned, a CMA indicated that expired liquids are usually removed and stored elsewhere, but acknowledged the expired date on the supplements and stated they would notify a nurse. Further interviews revealed that the supplements remained in the medication room because there was uncertainty between the dialysis clinic and the primary physician regarding who would write the order for the resident's supplements, resulting in an unfilled order. The RN confirmed that medication aides are responsible for removing expired medications, and the RNC stated that all expired medications, including over-the-counter items and supplements, should be pulled from medication rooms and disposed of properly. The presence of expired supplements in the medication room was directly observed and confirmed by staff.