Failure to Serve Meals at Safe and Appetizing Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to serve meals that were palatable and at a safe and appetizing temperature, as evidenced by observations, resident and staff interviews, and test tray results. Four residents reported that their meals were often served cold or lukewarm, with specific complaints about French fries and other hot foods not being served at the appropriate temperature. The Resident Food Committee Meeting minutes from December 2024 and January 2025 also documented resident dissatisfaction with food temperatures, indicating that the issue was ongoing and unaddressed by the facility. A test tray evaluation conducted on January 30, 2025, confirmed that the hot food items, including chicken and dumplings and mixed vegetables, were served below the required temperature, with the chicken and dumplings recorded at 125.5 degrees Fahrenheit and the mixed vegetables at 104.8 degrees Fahrenheit. The Dietary Manager and the Nursing Home Administrator acknowledged the facility's responsibility to ensure meals are served at safe and appetizing temperatures. The failure to maintain proper food temperatures compromised the quality of dining services and posed potential food safety risks.
Plan Of Correction
F804 The facility will provide meals that are palatable and at a safe and appetizing temperature. Residents 1, 5, 6, 14, and 87 had no ill effect from deficient practices. Residents were asked at the Monthly Food Services meeting on 2/10/2025 about palatability and temperature concerns; none voiced any issues. Food items are tasted and temped prior to starting the tray line as well as during the tray line. The trays are then immediately taken upstairs in an enclosed cart. Staff are being notified as soon as the cart arrives for best temperatures and palatability. The Food Service Director has in-serviced staff on food palatability and how to keep temperatures at required levels. A QA project will be completed on temperatures and the time it takes to serve the resident, and what the temperature is at service time. Findings will be reviewed monthly at the building's QAPI meeting. Changes will be made when deemed appropriate. Staff will be in-serviced on palatability.