Failure to Serve Meals at Palatable and Safe Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that meals were served at palatable and safe temperatures, as required by both federal regulations and the facility's own policy. Observations and interviews revealed that five out of nine residents interviewed reported their meals were often served cold, lukewarm, or unappetizing. A review of a resident concern form and direct interviews confirmed that multiple residents experienced meals that were not at a palatable temperature. During a lunch service observation, the last tray delivered to a resident was found to have hot food items below the required 135°F, with temperatures ranging from 113°F to 126.1°F, and cold items above the required 41°F, with a fruit drink at 59.9°F. A taste analysis confirmed the food was lukewarm and unappetizing. The facility's policy, last reviewed in January 2025, required hot foods to be held and served at or above 135°F and cold foods at or below 41°F. Despite this, the Dietary Manager incorrectly stated that a hot food temperature of 126.1°F was acceptable, which contradicted both policy and regulatory requirements. The Nursing Home Administrator acknowledged that the facility had not ensured meals were consistently served at palatable temperatures or in accordance with resident preferences. These findings were based on direct observation, resident and staff interviews, and review of facility documentation.