Repeated Failure to Ensure Dishes Are Dry Before Storage
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure an effective Quality Assurance Performance Improvement (QAPI) process to address a previously identified deficiency related to the storage of wet dishes in the kitchen. During the most recent survey, observations revealed that a dietary aide repeatedly placed wet dishes, including an 8-cup measuring cup and two spatulas with visible water droplets, into storage and above a preparation table where food was being prepared. Staff interviews indicated that employees had been trained to ensure equipment was dry before storage, but the practice was not consistently followed. Additionally, the required signage reminding staff to dry dishes before storage was missing from the designated area. Further interviews with dietary and administrative staff revealed a lack of awareness regarding the ongoing issue and the absence of the stop and dry sign. The QAPI plan and policy outlined the use of audits and monitoring, but the deficiency was repeated from a prior survey, indicating that the interventions were not effective in preventing recurrence. Documentation showed that newer staff had received some training, but the deficiency persisted, as evidenced by direct observation and staff statements.