Janett Green, Exec Director Hospice of Southern WV

Hospice of Southern West Virginia
A Case Study

Hospice of Southern West Virginia (HSWV) was the first to test element MDS. Like most hospices, HSWV assists families with the destruction of medications during care and especially after the patient’s passing. Prior to using element MDS, nurses would destroy medications by flushing them down the toilet in the family’s home.

Janett Green is the Executive Director of HSWV. “Our patients and their families are increasingly aware of the issues associated with flushing medications. Many have expressed concern. Element allows staff to dispose of medication in an efficient and compliant manner. Our nurses love it.”

Here is their process:

  • HSWV nurses carry element MDS with them during their home visits.
  • When a patient passes (or medications are to be destroyed after discontinuation), the medications are documented on a two-part form (available here).
  • The form includes a detailed listing of the medication, strength, count, pharmacy, and rx number.
  • The nurse counts the medication along with a witness in the home. Both sign the form.
  • The form includes a removable sticker with a unique ID code. The sticker is removed from the form and affixed to element MDS bottle.
  • A copy of the form is left with the family.
  • The medications are then destroyed according to element MDS directions.
  • The sealed element MDS bottle and the top copy of the inventory form are returned to HSWV offices.
  • A compliance check is conducted by independent staff. Staff will verify the medications destroyed are consistent with those listed in the patient’s record. They will also make sure the label matches the documentation and that the tamper-evident seal is in place.
  • They then dispose of the bottle in regular trash receptacles.

“Not only do we feel that we are helping to protect our water supply, we feel like we are also protecting our staff and company against possible diversion.” Green says.