Sanitation and Food Safety Deficiencies in Kitchen and Kitchenette
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple sanitation and food safety deficiencies in the facility's kitchen and kitchenette. In the main kitchen, metal shelving units in the walk-in refrigerator and under the coffee machine were found to be severely rusted and flaking, with food items such as fruit, vegetables, and coffee supplies stored directly on them. A return air vent near the prep sink and the wall above the hanging pots and pans rack were covered in dirt, grease, and dust, while the wall near a light switch was visibly dirty. The outside exit door had a one-inch gap at its base, which could allow pests to enter, and the wooden screen door was left open during meal service. During food preparation, staff were seen using a paint brush with charred, curled bristles and a burned wooden handle to apply oil and butter to food items. The same brush was used for multiple purposes and was cleaned in the dishwasher between uses. Additionally, the three-compartment sink used for sanitizing pots and pans was found to have sanitizer levels at 700 PPM, exceeding the facility's policy range of 150-200 PPM. Large containers were not fully submerged in the sanitizing solution due to a leaking drain, leaving them improperly sanitized. In the kitchenette near the main nursing station, a refrigerator contained an open, unlabeled, and undated container of chocolate ice cream with whipped cream on top, as well as a Tupperware container labeled only with a resident's name but lacking a date or description of contents. The Director of Nursing confirmed that dietary staff were responsible for the refrigerator's condition and that the food had likely been brought in by a family member without notifying staff.