Failure to Maintain Safe Food Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food was served at a palatable and safe temperature for six residents. On the morning of April 8, 2025, breakfast trays for these residents were observed sitting on dining room tables with lids or other plates on top, despite the residents not being present. A Certified Nurse Aid/Transportation staff member, V4, confirmed that trays were routinely delivered to residents' regular spots regardless of their presence, and noted that the food was often not hot when served. This practice was confirmed by the Dietary Manager, V6, who acknowledged that food should only be served if residents are present. During the same morning, V6 was observed taking a tray to a resident's room, where the resident was found sitting in a recliner with her eyes closed. The food temperatures at that time were recorded as 89 degrees Fahrenheit for scrambled eggs and 88 degrees Fahrenheit for sausage, which are below the recommended serving temperatures. The Dietary Manager admitted that there were frequent complaints about food temperatures, attributing the issue to the loss of temperature once food leaves the steam table.