Improper Storage of Medications and Vaccines in DON Office Refrigerator
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that medications and vaccines were improperly stored in the DON’s office in a miniature refrigerator that also contained personal food and drink items. During the observation, the refrigerator held Ozempic, two single-dose vials of Prevnar 20 (pneumococcal 20-valent vaccine), and two single-dose vials of RSV vaccine alongside an unopened individually wrapped sandwich, a half-full dressing bottle, four unopened 12-ounce cans of lemonade, a three-quarters full bottle of water, and a personal water bottle. In an interview, the DON stated she had forgotten that the medications were in her refrigerator and acknowledged that resident medications should never be stored with personal food items. Review of the facility’s Medication Storage policy, last reviewed on 12/12/2023, indicated that all medications housed on the premises were to be stored in the pharmacy and/or medication rooms to ensure proper sanitation, temperature, light, ventilation, moisture control, segregation, and security, which was not followed in this instance. This citation relates to Intake 2791258 and 410 IAC 16.2-3.1-25(o).
We Help Long-Term Care Teams Stay Survey-Ready
We process and analyze inspection reports and plan of correction using AI to extract insights and trends so providers can improve care quality and stay ahead of compliance risks.