Appendix VII: Guidelines for Wasting Controlled Substances

Dispenser Errors and Partial Dose Waste on the Omnicell

What to do when there is an undetected Dispenser Error

If a dispenser error occurs (eg. No tablet or extra tablet found in the dispenser drawer or
Different tablet/strength than what was requested is in the dispenser drawer)
AND the Omnicell screen DOES NOT DETECT its error:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

EXIT out from the system

LOGON
Go to <Floor Charges> (Located at top of Local list)
Select <Return Med>
Go to <Stock Item>
Select Medication to Return
Enter Quantity to return and an acceptable reason

**WITNESS is REQUIRED**

Examples of Acceptable Reasons:

-

Dispenser Error, one extra

Dispenser Error, wrong tablet

NOT Acceptable Reasons:

NOTE: Be concise. Free-text field is limited.

Off by 1 tab
Missing 1 tab
Called pharmacy
See Folder

How to Waste Partial Doses

AFTER administration, if entire syringe/tablet is not given
(eg. Dose not given, pt refusal, order changed)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

LOGON and go to that Pts profile

Select <Waste Meds>
Select medication to waste
Enter waste amount *(Note: Is it asking # of tabs or ___ MG?)*
Give acceptable reason
**WITNESS MUST VERIFY AND RECORD WASTE**

IF waste had already been recorded, do UNLINKED WASTE:

1. LOGON and go to that Pts profile (in local list)
2. Select <Waste meds>
3. Select <Stock meds>
4. Select med to waste
5. You will see <Issue not found> button, select and continue to return
medication waste as UNLINKED waste
6. Enter waste amt & an acceptable reason
**WITNESS MUST VERIFY AND RECORD WASTE**
Rev 09-04-09 jr/ms