Failure to Employ Qualified Dietary Services Manager in Absence of Full-Time RD
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to employ a qualified Dietary Services Manager (DSM) in the absence of a full-time Registered Dietitian (RD) for 64 residents who received food from the kitchen. During a kitchen tour, surveyors observed improper food preparation, improper storage of food items, and unmaintained kitchen equipment. The Dietary Service Supervisor (DSS) confirmed she was not a certified Dietary Manager, having taken but not completed the required course. The RD, who was only present part-time, also confirmed the absence of a qualified Dietary Manager. The Nutrition Support Specialist (NSS), who covered the kitchen when the RD was not present, had not passed the exam to be a qualified RD. Interviews with facility staff, including the Administrator, confirmed that the RD worked only two to three days per week, and the NSS, who was not qualified as a RD, was responsible for overseeing the kitchen and staff during the RD's absence. Review of the facility's contract showed the RD was contracted for only 16 hours per week. The facility did not have a full-time qualified DSM as required by state regulations when the RD was not present, and the DSS did not meet the necessary certification or training requirements to supervise dietary services.