Failure to Separate Clean and Used Utensils During Meal Preparation
Penalty
Summary
During the preparation of pureed meals for nine residents, a cook (CK) was observed placing used utensils, specifically a large mixing spoon that had been used to mix tortillas and turkey meat in a blender, into a tray containing clean mixing spoons and colored scoops. This action occurred in the presence of the registered dietician (RD) and was directly observed by surveyors. The CK acknowledged during an interview that it was important not to mix used and clean utensils to prevent possible contamination, and admitted to being nervous as it was her first time being observed during a survey. The RD confirmed witnessing the incident and stated that mixing clean and used utensils was not appropriate due to the risk of contamination. The Director of Nursing (DON) also stated in an interview that separating clean and used utensils is important to prevent cross-contamination and protect residents' health. A review of the facility's policy on food preparation and service indicated that appropriate measures must be used to prevent cross-contamination, which was not followed in this instance.