Failure to Maintain Kitchen Equipment and Food Storage in Sanitary Condition
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed multiple failures in maintaining kitchen equipment and food storage areas in a clean and sanitary manner. The slicer was found with food debris under the blade and on the food holder prongs, and the Food Service Director (FSD) acknowledged it was not cleaned according to facility policy. In the walk-in freezer, two open boxes of food were found unlabeled and unsealed, contrary to policy requirements for labeling with name, date of opening, and discard date. The six-burner stove and griddle catch trays had significant food sediment, burnt liquid, and peeling foil, all of which the FSD confirmed were not cleaned as per policy. Additionally, a utensil cart contained trays with crumbs and debris, and the can opener blade was chipped and soiled, with no maintenance log or replacement blades available. Further inspection of unit kitchenettes revealed both ice machines had brown and black discoloration inside the water and ice dispensers, which was acknowledged by the DON and Infection Preventionist as inappropriate. The Maintenance Director also confirmed that equipment should be cleaned and maintained per policy, and the LNHA acknowledged the surveyors' concerns after reviewing photographic evidence. Review of facility policies confirmed requirements for cleaning and labeling that were not followed, leading to the cited deficiencies.