Failure to Maintain Sanitary Conditions in Food Service Operations
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in the facility's food service operations, specifically regarding the cleanliness and sanitation of equipment and food storage areas. Meal carts used to deliver resident trays for breakfast and lunch were found with spattered, dried, white and brown debris on both the inside and outside surfaces, as well as on the floors of the carts. Coffee carts used to serve beverages to residents also had visible dried debris on the shelves and handles. Additionally, the plate warmer, which housed clean plates for resident use, had several areas of dried debris and food crumbs on its surface. During meal preparation, dietary staff were seen filling large, insulated beverage containers with coffee while the containers were placed on the floor, with the spout openings positioned just above the floor. Nearby, two stacked milk crates, also covered in dried debris, were used to elevate the beverage containers. A rolling cart containing a used surgical mask, a foam cup with liquid, and a partially eaten meal tray was observed next to the coffee station, rather than being taken directly to the dish room as required. The stand-up refrigerator and freezer, which stored food for resident consumption, had spattered debris on the floors, inside walls, and outside doors. Interviews with the Food Service Director (FSD) and Regional FSD revealed that there was no established cleaning schedule for items in the main kitchen, nor were there logs maintained to document when cleaning occurred. The FSD confirmed that meal carts, coffee carts, the plate warmer, and food storage units should be kept clean and that the observed conditions did not meet the facility's own guidelines for sanitary food storage, preparation, and distribution.