Failure to Serve Food at Safe and Appetizing Temperatures Due to Elevator Outage
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to prepare and serve food in a manner that conserved temperature, flavor, and appearance, resulting in residents receiving meals that were not palatable, attractive, or at a safe and appetizing temperature. Due to an inoperable elevator, staff distributed food using stairs and served meals in plastic containers, which did not retain heat effectively. Multiple residents reported that their food and beverages, such as coffee, were cold and unappetizing, and staff interviews confirmed that the use of disposable containers contributed to the food being barely warm and not presentable. The Dietary Supervisor acknowledged that the use of plastic containers was only intended for emergencies and that it negatively impacted the dining experience. The deficiency affected a large number of residents, including those on regular, therapeutic, and puree diets. Residents with medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes expressed dissatisfaction with the food temperature and presentation. Staff interviews and record reviews revealed that the elevator repair was delayed due to payment disputes with the elevator company, resulting in prolonged use of stairs and disposable containers for meal delivery. Facility policy required food to be prepared in accordance with the FDA Food Code, but observations and interviews indicated that this standard was not met during the period in question.