Failure to Provide Palatable, Appetizing, and Properly Temperature-Controlled Food
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide appetizing, palatable, and appropriately temperature-controlled food to eight of nine sampled residents. Multiple residents, all cognitively intact and able to express their needs, reported that hot foods were often served cold or lukewarm, cold foods were sometimes warm, and meals lacked variety and flavor. Several residents described the food as bland, unappetizing, and sometimes unidentifiable, with some stating they resorted to eating sandwiches or ordering outside food due to dissatisfaction with the meals provided. Observations confirmed that food was sometimes delivered at improper temperatures, and portion sizes were described as small. A test tray sampled by the survey team further substantiated these complaints. The meal consisted of roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, corn, ravioli, and peach cobbler. The chicken was found to be dry, bland, and colorless, the mashed potatoes were unseasoned, and the ravioli had dried edges, making it difficult to cut. The peach cobbler was watery but had acceptable flavor. The dietary manager acknowledged the issues, noting that a recent change in food suppliers and menu may have contributed to the problems, and that initial preparation followed supplier directions before adjustments were made with the dietician. Staff interviews revealed ongoing complaints about the food's lack of flavor and improper temperatures. The dietary manager stated that food was cooked to proper temperatures and placed on hot plates, but the timing of tray delivery by nursing staff affected the food's temperature upon arrival to residents. Occasional complaints about cold food were acknowledged, and meals were sometimes replaced when issues were reported. The deficiency was cited under WAC 388-97-1100 (1),(2), with reference to F806 for additional information.