10A NCAC 13D .2605      DRUG STORAGE AND DISPOSITION

(a)  A facility shall ensure that drug storage areas are clean, secure, well lighted and well ventilated; that room temperature is maintained between 59 degrees F. and 86 degrees F.; and that the following conditions are met:

(1)           All drugs shall be maintained under locked security except when under the direct physical supervision of a nurse or pharmacist.

(2)           Drugs requiring refrigeration shall be stored in a refrigerator containing a thermometer and capable of maintaining a temperature range of 2 degrees C. to 8 degrees C. (36 degrees F. to 46 degrees F.)   Drug containers must be placed in another container separate from non-drug items when stored in a refrigerator.

(3)           Drugs intended for topical use, except for ophthalmic, otic and transdermal medications, shall be stored in an area separate from the drugs intended for oral and injectable use.

(4)           Drugs that are outdated, discontinued or deteriorated shall be removed from the facility within five days.

(b)  Upon discontinuation of a drug or upon discharge of a patient, the remainder of the drug supply shall be disposed of according to the facility's policy. If it is reasonably expected that the patient will return to the facility and that the drug therapy will be resumed, the remaining drug supply may be held for not more than 30 calendar days after the date of discharge or discontinuation.

(c)  The disposition of drugs shall be in accordance with written policies and procedures established by the Quality Assurance Committee.

(d)  Destruction of controlled substances shall be in compliance with Disposal of Unused Controlled Substances From Nursing Home as described in 10A NCAC 26E .0406, which is hereby incorporated by reference including subsequent amendments. These Rules can be accessed online at http://reports.oah.state.nc.us/ncac.asp.

History Note:        Authority G.S. 131E‑104; 131E-117;

RRC objection due to lack of statutory authority Eff. July 13, 1995;

Eff. January 1, 1996;

Amended Eff. July 1, 2012;

Pursuant to G.S. 150B-21.3A, rule is necessary without substantive public interest Eff. March 22, 2015.