HospitalInspections.org

16639

Based on observation and interview the facility failed to ensure that expired and outdated supplies were removed from areas of use of the emergency department of the hospital. The facility census was 19.

Findings included:

Upon review of the supplies contained in the Emergency Department (ED) for two treatment bays, the following outdated supplies were found on 3/8/11:
-In the ophthalmic (eyes) treatment bin there were five eye pads with an expiration date of June of 2010.
-A product named "Ful glo" ophthalmic strips with an expiration date of February of 2010 and the box was approximately one half full.
-In a box for the purpose of chest tubes supplies there were the following:
-Chest tube clamp (quantity of two) with an expiration date of December 2010.
-16 gauge intravenous(IV) catheter with an expiration date of February of 2011.
-A hemostat with an expiration date of January of 2011.
-14 total suture packages with an expiration date of July of 2007.

During an interview on 3/8/11 at 3:45 PM, Staff N, RN (Registered Nurse on duty) stated that the staff persons do checks on the equipment when they have time on low census days for the ED.

During an interview on 3/9/11 at 9:45 AM, Staff O, (Emergency Department supervisor) stated that the crash cart supplies are checked two times per month for outdated supplies and that other supplies are checked at inventory time and during use. The supplies are to be checked on low census days for outdated supplies.

Record review of the policy titled "Stocking /outdates of Supplies" dated 7/6/10, stated that monitoring of supplies and equipment in all area of Scotland County Memorial Hospital concerning adequate quantity and outdates will be a part of the various departments within this facility.