Failure to Follow Standardized Pureed Diet Recipe
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow standardized pureed recipes during food preparation, specifically when preparing pureed beef lasagna for residents on pureed diets. During observation, the cook did not measure the amount of water added to the lasagna, instead filling the blender container halfway or until the food was covered, resulting in a watery and thin consistency. The cook then added food thickener to adjust the texture, rather than following the recipe instructions to add the smallest amount of liquid gradually and only as needed. This process was repeated for multiple batches, and the cook confirmed that he does not measure the water, which deviates from the standardized recipe requirements. The facility's Regional Director of Kitchen Operations and Registered Dietitian both stated that following the standardized recipes is essential to ensure residents receive the correct nutritional content, as adding too much liquid can dilute calories and protein. Facility documentation, including job descriptions, menu extensions, recipes, and policies, all require adherence to standardized recipes and proper procedures for consistency-modified foods. The deficiency was identified as having the potential to affect eight residents who were prescribed pureed diets as part of their physician-ordered dietary needs.