Failure to Serve Food at Safe Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide food and drinks at safe and appetizing temperatures on the third-floor nursing unit. Multiple residents reported ongoing issues with cold food, which had been discussed in resident council meetings and a separate meeting with the Nursing Home Administrator (NHA). Despite these discussions, the problem persisted, and residents continued to receive cold meals. The NHA acknowledged the issue, attributing it to a broken heating device used to keep food warm during transport, which had not been replaced. Interviews with several residents revealed dissatisfaction with the temperature of their meals, including cold coffee, French fries, hamburgers, and eggs. These concerns were repeatedly raised in meetings, but residents reported no follow-up or resolution. The Food Service Director (FSD) confirmed that the heating device was broken and needed replacement, but no interim measures were implemented to ensure meals were served at appropriate temperatures. A test tray conducted on the third floor confirmed that food and beverages were not served at acceptable temperatures. The Food Service Director and the NHA were aware of the broken heating device but had not taken steps to address the issue. The facility's failure to maintain food at safe temperatures violated regulatory requirements, as evidenced by the test tray results and resident complaints.
Plan Of Correction
The facility cannot go back retroactively to correct this issue. Dietary staff members were educated on appropriate food temperatures. The Dietary Director/designee will conduct test tray audits on each floor weekly x 4 weeks then monthly x 2 months. Results of these audits will be submitted to the Quality Assurance Committee to determine if further action is needed.