Failure to Provide Palatable and Properly Presented Food
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food served to residents was palatable, visually appealing, and at a preferred temperature, as observed during a noon meal. Two residents, both alert and dependent on staff for activities of daily living, requested hamburgers from the Always Available Menu instead of the main meal option. The hamburgers provided had smashed buns, very small meat patties, and were missing requested condiments such as onions and gravy. One resident was unable to add ketchup due to the condition of the food, and both residents expressed dissatisfaction, with one stating the food was cold and not tolerable, ultimately refusing to eat the meal. Further review of confidential Resident Council meeting notes over several months revealed ongoing complaints regarding the quality, temperature, and portion size of food, as well as not receiving ordered items. An interview with the Director of Activities confirmed awareness of continuous food complaints, describing the food as unappetizing and likening it to gas station food. Facility policies reviewed indicated requirements for food to be attractively presented, palatable, and for residents to be treated with dignity and respect, which were not met in these instances.