Failure to Properly Store, Label, and Discard Food in Nourishment Kitchenettes
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food items in two nourishment kitchenettes were stored, prepared, and served in accordance with professional standards and facility policy. Observations revealed that both Main 1 and Main 2 nourishment kitchenettes contained expired food items, unlabeled and undated beverages and foods, and visible dirt and sticky substances on refrigerator and freezer surfaces. Items such as pre-made lemonade, pudding, yogurt, and various beverages were found past their expiration dates, and several food items lacked required labeling with names and dates. Additionally, some food packages were not properly sealed, and personal staff items were found in resident-designated refrigerators, contrary to facility policy. Interviews with the Food Service Director (FSD) and Director of Nursing (DON) confirmed that dietary staff were responsible for cleaning and discarding expired food twice daily, with the FSD conducting weekly random audits. However, the presence of trash, dirty surfaces, and expired or improperly labeled food indicated that these procedures were not consistently followed. The FSD and DON both stated that staff were not permitted to store personal food or beverages in the resident kitchenettes, yet a CNA was observed attempting to do so. Facility policies required all food and beverages to be labeled with names and dates, with items discarded after three days in the refrigerator. The policies also specified that refrigerators should be cleaned daily and that only resident food items were permitted. Despite these clear guidelines, the surveyor's findings demonstrated multiple instances of non-compliance, including expired manufactured food, unsealed packages, and unsanitary conditions in both kitchenettes.