Failure to Serve Meals at Safe and Appetizing Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to serve meals that were palatable and maintained at a safe and appetizing temperature for six of ten residents sampled. Observations revealed that a breakfast cart was left unattended on the second floor for an extended period, resulting in food being served at temperatures within the 'Danger Zone,' which is defined as above 41°F and below 135°F. A test tray evaluation showed that the waffles, ham, and hot cereal were served below the required 135°F minimum, making them unpalatable and potentially unsafe. Interviews with six cognitively intact residents confirmed that the food was often served cold and not palatable. Residents reported that delays in tray passing contributed to the issue, with carts frequently left in hallways. The Nursing Home Administrator and the dietary manager acknowledged that the test tray results did not meet regulatory or facility standards, confirming the deficiency in maintaining appropriate food temperatures.
Plan Of Correction
The facility cannot retroactively r the cited deficiency. Meals that are being served are palatable, attractive, and at a safe and appetizing temperature. The Dietary Manager/Designee will re-educate the dietary staff on the facility's Test Tray and Point of Service Food Temperatures policy. The ADON/designee will re-educate nursing staff on timely pass of resident meal trays to help to ensure safe temperature of meals. The Dietary Manager/designee will audit all three meals weekly x 4, then monthly x 3 to ensure acceptable temperatures are served and that they are palatable and attractive on the tray line. Any variations will be corrected immediately and/or offered as training to staff to ensure compliance. The Dietary Manager/designee will audit all three meals weekly x 4, then monthly x 3 on the units to ensure that trays are being served timely and what is being served is palatable, attractive, and that the temperatures are in an acceptable range. Any variations will be corrected immediately and/or offered as training to staff to ensure compliance. The results of these audits will be discussed at the facility QAPI meeting monthly for further review and recommendations.