Unsanitary Kitchen Conditions Due to Improper Trash Disposal and Handwashing Sink Maintenance
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to maintain sanitary conditions in the kitchen, specifically regarding the storage and preparation of food. During an initial kitchen tour, the handwashing sinks were found to have brown stains and grime buildup around both the inner and outer edges. Additionally, a foot-operated trash can had a broken lid, which was found lying on the floor behind the trash can in a pile of used coffee grounds. The open trash can was located adjacent to the food preparation area, next to the steam table and a rack of clean dishes. Dietary staff confirmed that the trash should be contained to ensure food sanitation and prevent contamination. On a follow-up tour, the same uncovered trash can was observed at the handwashing sink in the food preparation area, and staff verified that it was the same broken trash can from the previous day. The facility did not provide a policy addressing trash disposal and hand sanitation equipment in the kitchen. These observations were made while the facility had a census of 26 residents and one main kitchen. No specific residents were directly involved or affected at the time of the deficiency.