Deficiency in Food Temperature and Palatability
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to meet the requirements for serving food at appropriate temperatures, as evidenced by multiple observations and interviews. The policy for food service temperatures, dated November 26, 2024, stated that hot foods should be served at 140 degrees Fahrenheit or above, and cold foods at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. However, interviews with residents revealed that meals served in their rooms were often cold, overcooked, and not palatable. Additionally, residents reported missing items such as sugar packets, condiments, napkins, or flatware on their meal trays. During an observation in the kitchen, a test tray was placed on a meal cart destined for the A wing. The cart arrived at the unit, and the last resident was served approximately 19 minutes later. At that time, the temperature of the mashed potatoes was recorded at 129 degrees Fahrenheit, and the mixed vegetables at 122 degrees Fahrenheit, both below the required temperature for hot foods. The milk was also found to be at 51 degrees Fahrenheit, above the required temperature for cold foods. The Dietary Manager confirmed that the foods were not served at the proper temperatures, corroborating the residents' complaints.
Plan Of Correction
The policy on palatable food temperatures was reviewed with all members of the dietary department by the Registered Dietician and/or designee. All nursing staff re-educated on serving meal trays timely to residents eating in their rooms. Test trays will be completed by the Registered Dietician dietary manager twice weekly x 4 weeks, then monthly x 2 months, and at random afterwards to ensure that served foods are within facility policy temperatures and palatable. Results for test trays will be reviewed during facilities Quality Assurance committee meetings. Date of compliance 3/5/2025