Failure to Provide Consistent and Adequate Snack Availability for Residents
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that snacks were consistently available and provided to residents in accordance with their needs, preferences, and requests. Staff interviews revealed that it was common for nursing staff to purchase snacks out-of-pocket because the dietary department frequently did not supply adequate food or drink items. The Dietary Manager confirmed ongoing shortages of essential items such as pasteurized eggs, bread, oatmeal, and coffee, with some items completely unavailable at the time of survey. Observations showed that there were no hydration or snack carts present in the hallways, and the nourishment pantry was inadequately stocked, containing only minimal items such as a small jar of peanut butter, a squeeze container of jelly, a half box of crackers, applesauce, and a single sandwich and small bag of deli meat, both unlabeled or undated. Multiple residents reported that they were often unable to receive snacks, with some stating they had to purchase their own or were only offered snacks a few times a week. One resident, who is diabetic and supposed to receive a bedtime snack, indicated that staff told him there was nothing available when he requested a snack in the evening. The facility's policy stated that between-meal snacks should be available for all residents and that snacks for specific residents should be labeled and prepared by dining services, but these procedures were not being followed, as evidenced by the lack of available snacks and inconsistent provision to residents.