Failure to Prevent Cross Contamination During Meal Service
Penalty
Summary
Staff M, a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA), was observed during a lunch meal using a crescent-shaped rocker knife to cut food for multiple residents without sanitizing the utensil between uses. After cutting food for the first resident, Staff M proceeded to use the same visibly soiled rocker knife to cut food for several other residents, including one who had already touched and licked her own food. The knife was carried uncovered through the dining hall and was not cleaned or sanitized at any point during the process. After finishing, Staff M placed the soiled knife in a dirty dish bin and continued to assist residents with eating. Interviews with other staff members, including another CNA and an LPN, confirmed that facility training instructs staff to use each resident's own silverware and to avoid sharing utensils between residents to prevent cross contamination. The Director of Nursing (DON) acknowledged awareness of the incident and confirmed that the practice observed was unacceptable and not in line with facility expectations. Facility documentation also indicated that all employees assisting with meals are required to be trained and demonstrate competency in safe food handling and prevention of foodborne illness.