Ice Machine Maintenance Deficiency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain kitchen equipment in a clean, safe, and sanitary manner, as evidenced by the presence of black sediment identified as black mold in the interior of the ice machine dispenser shoot. This was observed by a surveyor in the presence of the Food Service Director (FSD), who acknowledged the issue and stated that the ice machine was cleaned quarterly, although it appeared to require more frequent cleaning. The FSD also mentioned that the ice machine was responsible for providing ice to the food tray line and the nursing units, indicating a potential widespread impact on the facility's operations. Further interviews with the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) and the Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed the presence of the black sediment, with the LNHA acknowledging that the ice machine had been cleaned in early November. The facility's policy on ice machines and ice storage chests emphasized the need for regular cleaning and sanitization to prevent contamination, as outlined in the manufacturer's user manual. However, the observed black mold indicated a failure to adhere to these guidelines, resulting in unsanitary conditions within the ice machine.
Plan Of Correction
12/23/24 1. Staff responsible for maintaining the ice machine were notified of the findings and provided with immediate education. The Ice Machine dispenser shoot identified in statement of deficiencies was immediately cleaned and sanitized on 12/16/24. 2. The [R] was re-educated on how to maintain the Ice machine. The facility revised the cleaning schedule for the ice machine to monthly and as needed which includes the dispenser shoot. All residents have the potential to be affected by this deficient practice. 3. The facility will receive feedback from the Food Service Director for the next 3 months to see if there are any issues with the cleanliness of the ice machine dispenser shoot. 4. Administrator or designee will complete Ice Machine audits weekly x4 and then monthly x3. Results of these audits will be reported by the Administrator at the QAPI meetings. QAPI meetings are held Quarterly at the facility. Date of completion was 12/23/24.