Delayed Meal Service and Failure to Meet Resident Preferences
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide timely meal service in accordance with residents' needs, preferences, and requests, as evidenced by observations, interviews, and record reviews. One resident reported that breakfast was served around 9:00 - 9:30 A.M., lunch from 1:00 - 1:30 P.M., and dinner from 6:00 - 6:30 P.M. On the day of observation, the resident's lunch tray was seen stored in an insulated transport cart in the hallway at 1:57 P.M., and was not delivered until 2:04 P.M. by a CNA, who then assisted the resident with feeding. The facility's policy indicated that lunch should be served between 12:00 and 2:00 P.M. This delay in meal delivery affected up to 116 residents who consume food at the facility, increasing the likelihood of delayed meal service, emotional or psychosocial distress, and decreased food acceptance or nutritional decline. The deficiency was identified through direct observation of meal service practices, interviews with residents, and review of facility policies and procedures regarding meal times and the availability of alternative meals and snacks.