HospitalInspections.org

Based on findings from observation, document review and interview, blank prescription pads were not securely stored in the emergency department (ED). Additionally, the hospital's policy and procedure (P&P) lacked instructions on secure storage of prescription pads.

Findings include:

-- Per observation on 9/17/15 at 10:40 am, 4 blank prescription pads were on the counter in the locked medication room in the ED, accessible to staff.

-- Per review of the hospital's P&P titled "Nursing/Pharmacy - 107," last reviewed/revised 10/2012, it lacked instructions for storing prescription pads in a secure manner.

-- During interview with Staff #5 (Chief Nursing Officer) and Staff #6 (ED Nurse Manager) on 9/17/15 at 10:55 am, the above findings were confirmed.