Failure to Accommodate Resident Latex Allergies in Food Service
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to accommodate the food allergies, intolerances, and preferences of seven residents who had documented latex allergies. Despite these allergies being recorded in the electronic medical records at admission, dietary staff were observed plating food using latex gloves, which is a direct source of latex exposure. The dietary staff member involved stated a preference for latex gloves over vinyl or nitrile alternatives and was unaware of any residents with latex allergies. The dietary manager confirmed that staff could choose their glove type and was also unaware of the presence of residents with latex allergies. Facility policies reviewed did not specifically address latex allergies or restrict the use of latex gloves in food service. The policies generally required the use of clean barriers, such as single-use gloves or utensils, when handling food, but did not specify glove material. During interviews, the dietary manager, DON, infection control nurse, and administrator all indicated a lack of awareness regarding both the use of latex gloves in dietary services and the presence of residents with latex allergies. The DON and administrator acknowledged the risk of anaphylactic reactions in residents with latex allergies if exposed to latex products. The deficiency was identified during a tray line observation where a staff member served food to residents using latex gloves, despite the presence of multiple residents with documented latex allergies. The lack of communication and policy specificity regarding latex allergies contributed to the failure to provide appropriate alternatives and ensure resident safety during food service.