Failure to Serve Food at Safe and Appetizing Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide food at an appetizing and safe temperature to one resident. Resident #17, who was cognitively intact as indicated by a BIMS score of 15, reported that food was sometimes served cold, though this occurred less than weekly. During an observation, lunch was served by the Assistant Activities Director, who did not typically serve meals. After the meal was served, food temperatures were taken and found to be below the facility's expected standard of 135 degrees for several items, with peas at 112 degrees and cauliflower at 119 degrees. The staff member acknowledged that the temperatures were not adequate and that she did not keep track of the food temperatures obtained. Further interviews revealed that the Certified Dietary Manager expected staff to check food temperatures prior to service and to ensure food was held at or above 135 degrees. The Administrator confirmed the expectation that food temperatures be maintained above 135 degrees until after meal service was completed. However, it was also noted that the facility did not have a written policy on food holding temperatures. The deficiency was identified through observation, resident and staff interviews, and review of facility practices.