Deficiencies in Food Storage, Hand Hygiene, and Ice Machine Sanitation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain proper food storage, handling, and sanitation practices as observed during a survey. Unsealed and uncovered food items, such as an opened bag of grits and an open box of salt, were found on a shelf above the food preparation counter. Expired food items, including a box of baking soda and a box of strawberry banana yogurts, were present in storage and the refrigerator, respectively, and were not promptly discarded. Additionally, the ice machine in the kitchen had a wet yellowish residue on the panel where ice formed, indicating it was not maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. The residue was easily wiped off and was described as dirty and rusty in color, with the ice from this machine being used for resident beverages and water pitchers. Dietary staff did not consistently follow proper hand hygiene protocols. One dietary staff member washed her hands but then turned off the faucet with her clean hands, contaminating them, and proceeded to handle bread and chicken tenders without re-washing. She also handled clean equipment, such as a blender blade, after touching potentially contaminated surfaces without washing her hands again. Facility policies required hands to be washed before working with food and equipment, as well as during food preparation and when changing tasks, and for all foods to be stored wrapped or in covered containers. These policies were not followed, leading to the deficiencies observed.