Incorrect Scoop Size Used for Mashed Potatoes During Meal Service
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that the correct food service scoops were used to serve mashed potatoes, as required by their standardized recipes and portion control guidelines. During meal service, the cook prepared a green handled number 12 scoop, which provides 2 2/3 ounces, for serving mashed potatoes, despite the facility's diet spreadsheet specifying a portion size of 4 ounces. The dietary aide then served one scoop of mashed potatoes to each plate using this incorrect scoop size. The binder listing the correct portion and scoop sizes was available and accessible to staff, but was not referenced or followed during this meal service. Interviews with staff confirmed that menus and recipes, including specified scoop sizes, are to be followed to meet residents' nutritional needs. The facility's policy on standardized recipes also requires adherence to serving sizes for all menu items. At the time of the incident, there were no residents receiving tube feedings or with NPO orders, and the census was 73 residents, all of whom had the potential to be affected by the incorrect portioning of mashed potatoes.