Failure to Follow Pureed Diet Recipe and Measurement Protocols
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that the cook followed the established recipe for preparing pureed vegetables for residents on a pureed diet. During an observation and interview, the cook stated that she prepared pureed vegetables for 18 residents and added two cups of water, resulting in a consistency that was more liquid than the required pudding-like texture. The cook was also observed pouring thickener directly from a container into the vegetables without measuring, later stating that she used 1.5 cups of thickener, which exceeded the recipe's requirements. The facility's recipe specified maximum amounts of fluid and thickener for specific serving sizes, which were not followed. Further interviews and record reviews confirmed that the cook did not adhere to the recipe for either the pureed vegetables or the thickener, and the dietary supervisor acknowledged that the thickener should have been measured and the recipe followed. The facility's documentation indicated that the pureed diet is intended for residents with difficulty chewing or swallowing, requiring a smooth and moist consistency that holds its shape. The failure to follow the recipe and measure ingredients as required could affect the consistency, taste, and nutritional value of the pureed foods provided to residents.