Uncovered Beverage Delivery During Meal Service
Penalty
Summary
Staff failed to follow proper food handling practices during the distribution of beverages to residents, as observed on multiple occasions. Beverages, including coffee, water, juice, and dairy, were repeatedly transported and delivered to resident rooms and bedside tables without covers. These uncovered beverages were observed being carried through hallways, placed on bedside tables, and retrieved from food trolleys, including in areas where residents were on Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP). Staff members, including nursing and dietary staff, were seen handling and delivering these uncovered drinks over varying distances within the facility. Interviews with facility staff, including the Kitchen Manager and Registered Dietitian, confirmed that the expectation was for all beverages to be covered during delivery to prevent contamination. However, the observed practice did not align with this expectation, as staff distributed uncovered beverages to residents. Facility policies on infection prevention and control, as well as surveillance of infection-related practices, were referenced, but the observed actions did not adhere to these standards.