Failure to Perform Hand Hygiene Prior to Food Preparation
Penalty
Summary
A Kitchen Aid (KA) was observed in the kitchen opening the trash lid and then proceeding to cut zucchini squash on a cutting board without performing hand hygiene. This action was directly witnessed by surveyors during a kitchen observation. When interviewed, the KA acknowledged not performing hand hygiene after touching the trash lid and stated that staff are required to perform hand hygiene before handling food to prevent the spread of infections. The Administrator (ADM) confirmed during an interview that kitchen staff should thoroughly perform hand hygiene with soap and water before, during, and after food preparation. A review of the facility's policies indicated that hand hygiene is considered the primary means to prevent the spread of infection and is required to ensure a safe and sanitary environment. The facility's Infection Prevention and Control Program also mandates maintaining practices to prevent the development and transmission of disease and infection.