Failure to Serve Food at Proper Temperature
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide food that was palatable and served at the proper temperature for two residents. The facility's policy on food preparation, revised in November 2022, specifies that food temperatures should be maintained at or below 41 degrees Fahrenheit or at or above 135 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent the growth of pathogenic microorganisms. However, interviews with two residents revealed complaints about cold and burnt food. During a test tray observation with the facility cook, it was found that the juice, canned pineapple, and cold pie were served at temperatures above the acceptable range, specifically at 58, 55, and 62 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively. The cook acknowledged that these temperatures were above the acceptable range and not palatable.
Plan Of Correction
1. Unable to correct retroactively. R1 and R2 had no adverse effects. 2. Initial audit was conducted to validate food is served at the proper temperature. Variances were addressed at the time of the audit and placed on the facility audit tool. 3. Dietary staff will be re-educated on serving food at the proper temperature. 4. FSD/designee will complete random audits to validate food is served at the proper temperature five times a week for four weeks and monthly for two months. Audit findings will be addressed and submitted to the Quality Assurance Performance Improvement Committee for further review and recommendations as needed.