HospitalInspections.org

Based on a tour of the Emergency Department (ED )on 05/10/12 at 1235-1330, it was determined expired supplies were observed in three of three (Trauma Room #1, Trauma Room #3 and Exam Room #2) rooms toured and were available for patient use. Failure to ensure currently dated supplies were available for patient use had the potential to delay patient treatment. The failed practice had the potential to affect all patients who received care in the Emergency Department. The following was observed and confirmed by the Emergency Room Director at the time of the observation:

1. Trauma Room #1 revealed Zosyn 3.375 gram (g), one of one - expired on 1/2012; and
Phenylephrine 1%, two of two single dose vials expired 01/2012.

2. Trauma Room #3 revealed 20 of 20 Allegiance Lubricating Jelly- expired 06/2011;
Specimen container Formalin solution 10%, two of two expired 12/2009;
Hydrogen Peroxide Topical solution 16 fluid ounces, two of two expired 08/2011;
Compound Benzoin Tincture 10% swab stick, 15 of 15 expired 04/2007;
Providine/Iodine E-Z scrub brush, 10 of 10 expired 07/2009; and
Providine/Iodine swab stick, seven of seven expired 11/2009.

3. Exam Room #2 revealed 20 of 20 size 2-0 18 inch sutures expired 07/2009; and
Nine of nine 5-0 18 inch sutures expired 07/2009.

4. Observation of the Emergency Cart on 05/10/12 at 1300 revealed three of three Adult Defibrillators Electrodes with an expiration date of 01/2012.

Based on interview, it was determined the facility failed to ensure medications were administered by licensed nursing personnel. Failure to ensure medications were administered by licensed nursing personnel had the potential for a medication error related to type, dose and frequency of administration. The failed practice had the potential to affect all patients who received care in the Emergency Department. Findings follow:

A. Staff #1 stated in a telephone interview on 05/10/12 at 1415, he administered ointment to patients.

B. Review of the personnel file for Staff #1 on 05/10/12 at 1445 revealed Staff #1 was not licensed to administer medications to patients.

C. Review of the job description titled Nurses Aide, for Staff #1, on 05/10/12 at 1440 revealed the job description did not allow for Nurses Aides to administer medications.

D. The Director of the Emergency Room confirmed in an interview that Staff #1 was not licensed or qualified to administer medications.