Failure to Offer Evening Snacks to Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide nourishing evening snacks to seven residents who were sampled for dining, as evidenced by multiple resident interviews and record reviews. Several residents reported that evening snacks were not routinely offered, and when requested, staff sometimes stated that snacks were unavailable or had run out. Only one CNA was identified as regularly offering snacks, typically cookies, during his shifts, while other staff did not proactively offer snacks to residents. Residents expressed that the lack of evening snacks was particularly concerning due to the significant time gap between dinner and breakfast, which was confirmed to be approximately 15 hours according to the facility's meal delivery schedule. Staff interviews revealed that while snacks were available on the units, they were only provided to residents who specifically requested them or had a physician's order, rather than being offered to all residents. The Dietary Manager confirmed that snacks were delivered to the units but was unaware if staff were distributing them to residents. Facility policy states that the time between the evening meal and breakfast should not exceed 14 hours unless a substantial snack is served at bedtime, yet this was not consistently practiced. One resident with diabetes specifically noted the need for an evening snack, highlighting the importance of this service for residents with medical needs.