Pureed Food Not Prepared to Required Consistency
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that pureed scalloped potatoes were prepared to the required smooth, pudding consistency for residents on pureed diets during a lunch meal. Observations showed that after blending the scalloped potatoes, neither the dietary staff member nor the Dietary Manager checked the consistency to confirm it met the necessary standard. The test tray review revealed that the pureed scalloped potatoes contained chunks and were not fully blended, which was acknowledged by the Dietary Manager as not meeting the correct consistency. Interviews with the dietary staff and the Dietary Manager confirmed that the pureed food should have a smooth, pudding-like consistency, and that the scalloped potatoes served did not meet this requirement. The facility's recipe and policy for pureed foods specify the need for a smooth, pudding or soft mashed potato consistency, particularly for residents with swallowing difficulties or those unable to chew regular foods. The failure to properly prepare and check the consistency of the pureed food was directly observed and confirmed by staff.