Use of Disposable Plates in Dining Room
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to serve meals in a dignified, home-like manner by using disposable containers for some residents dining in one of the main dining rooms. During an observation, it was noted that four out of fourteen residents were served lunch on red plastic disposable plates, while others received their meals on reusable plates and silverware. The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) present explained that there were not enough reusable plates available from the kitchen. Additionally, desserts were served on disposable plates, and residents were not assisted in removing the plastic wrap from their cake slices. The Chef admitted to using disposable plates as a backup due to an insufficient supply of regular plates from the kitchen. The Corporate Compliance Officer (CCO) and the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA) acknowledged that serving meals on disposable plates was a dignity issue and that all residents should have been served in the same manner. The facility's Dining Service Tray Presentation policy, revised in October 2023, stated that residents should eat in a dignified, home-like environment and that disposable items should not be used for meal service. The LNHA also noted that the kitchen should have provided more plates and that the Chef should have requested additional plates if needed.
Plan Of Correction
1. Corrective Action The USFFOLAT and nurse were educated by the Food Service Director that the residents should not have received a plastic plate and that all residents in the dining room must be served all courses of the meal on non-disposable plates. 2. Identification of other residents having potential to be affected by the deficient practice The deficient practice has the potential to affect all residents receiving meals. 3. Measures put in place Staff, including nursing and dietary, were in-serviced on dignity with regards to meal service and the Facility's policy on Tray presentation. This included education on serving prepared desserts on reusable plates. 4. How facility will monitor corrective actions to ensure the deficient practice does not recur The Dietary Director (or designee) will complete weekly audits for four weeks and monthly for two months. • Dietary Director will submit Audit results to the QAPI Committee monthly for three months.