Delayed Meal Service Resulting in Cold Food
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that two residents received their lunch meals in accordance with the scheduled meal times, as required by facility policy. Both residents reported that their food consistently arrived late and was cold. Observations confirmed that lunch trays for these residents were delivered significantly after the designated meal service window, with one tray arriving at 1:34 p.m. and another at 1:50 p.m., despite the policy stating that lunch should be served between 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. The dietary manager confirmed that the last lunch tray should be delivered by 1:00 p.m., and documentation supported the established meal times. These delays resulted in the residents receiving meals outside the scheduled period, with food that was not at an appetizing temperature.