HospitalInspections.org

Based upon observations and interviews, the hospital failed to ensure outdated Intravenous Fluids were not available for patient use. This was evidenced by the storage of 500cc's (cubic centimeters) Normal Saline bags, located in a cabinet in Emergency Room #1, that had expired on different dates in 2022. Findings:

During a tour of the Emergency Department on 02/27/23 at 10:40 a.m. observation of Emergency Room #1 revealed four bags of 500cc's Normal Saline had expired on 04/22, 09/22 and two bags expired 01/23.

Interview on 02/28/23 at 10:30 a.m. with Staff D revealed she was the drug room supervisor and responsible for pharmacy medications on a daily basis. When asked about the expired Intravenous Fluids found in the Emergency Department, Staff D replied the Emergency Department Registered Nurse was responsible for monitoring and removing expired fluids from the cabinet. Staff D further added the fluids would be obtained from the in-patient nursing station.

Based upon record review and interview, the hospital failed to ensure contracted services was provided by a supplier under Medicare. This was evidenced by having a contract for Dietary Services with the local Sheriff Department to provide patient meals at the hospital. Findings:

Interview with Staff A and B on 02/27/23 at 10:30 a.m. revealed the hospital did not have an on-site dietary department and the meals were provided by the local Sheriff Department. This process had been used for approximately two years. Further interview revealed Staff F provided oversight of the meals.

Review of the contract revealed three meals, two hot and one cold, would be provided each day by the Sheriff Department. Review of the form titled "Mealtime Contact Information" revealed "Charge Nurses will call the Jail Supervisor Direct Line at 0530 (5:30 a.m.) 1030 (10:30 a.m.) and 1630 (4:30 p.m.) to relay tray count/diet orders; also call to relay new admits, diet changes, tray issues, and discharges." Hospital meal times were identified as 8:00 a.m., 12:00 Noon, and 6:00 p.m.

Observations and interview with Staff F on 02/27/23 at 11:00 a.m. revealed meal trays were delivered in insulated bags. Staff F was observed to obtain food temperatures and check the diets to ensure they were in accordance with each patient's ordered diet.