Failure to Serve Palatable and Appropriately Heated Food
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to serve food that was palatable and at a safe and appetizing temperature on one unit, as evidenced by multiple resident complaints and direct observations. Residents consistently reported that hot food was served cold, with some stating that staff either did not offer to reheat the food or that reheating in the microwave resulted in overcooked meals. During a Resident Council meeting, half of the attendees confirmed that hot food was often served cold, and previous meeting minutes also documented similar concerns. Despite these ongoing complaints, there was no evidence that the facility had conducted adequate or ongoing test trays on the affected unit to assess or address the issue. A test tray conducted by the surveyor, accompanied by the Regional Food Services Director (FSD), revealed that several hot breakfast items were served at temperatures below what is considered appetizing, with all items described as cold to taste. Interviews with staff, including the FSD and a nurse, confirmed awareness of the problem and acknowledged that residents frequently complained about cold food. Documentation provided by the FSD showed limited and outdated test tray assessments, none of which were conducted on the unit in question or after the most recent resident complaints, indicating a lack of ongoing monitoring and response to the deficiency.