Failure to Provide Correct Pureed Diet Portions and Menu Items
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that residents on a pureed diet received the correct portion sizes and food items as specified by the menu. During meal preparation, the Dietary Services Manager Assistant prepared pureed Salisbury steak by combining steaks, bread, and gravy, then adjusted the mixture to reach a total of 6 cups. He referenced the Pureed Diet Portion Sizes/Scoops chart, which directed the use of 2 #8 scoops per serving, but during meal service, a different staff member used a #6 scoop (5 1/3 ounces) instead of the specified portion size. Additionally, residents on a pureed diet were served Salisbury steak, carrots, and bread, but did not receive the required whipped potatoes, contrary to the menu instructions. Staff interviews revealed inconsistencies in following the established portion size chart and a lack of policies regarding the pureed and mechanical soft diet process. The Registered Dietician confirmed that residents on a pureed diet should have received mashed potatoes and that there were no formal policies guiding the puree process. The Dietary Manager also stated that staff should use the chart for scoop sizes and expected residents to receive the correct portions, indicating a failure to adhere to menu requirements and established procedures.