Failure to Serve Palatable and Properly Tempered Meals
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide food that was palatable, attractive, and served at a safe and appetizing temperature, as evidenced by record review, interviews, and direct observation. One resident, who was cognitively intact and had multiple medical diagnoses including spinal stenosis, diabetes, depression, and chronic heart failure, reported that the food did not taste good, was often served cold when it should have been hot, and that the facility did not follow the posted menu. Photographic evidence provided by the resident showed multiple instances where the food served did not match the items listed on the meal tickets, with substitutions and omissions occurring repeatedly across several meals. Another resident also reported that hot food was served cold and described the food as inedible, leading him to purchase and store his own food in his room. During a lunch meal observation, the internal temperatures of chicken and pizza served to residents were measured at 109.3°F and 112.6°F, respectively, which were confirmed by both a CNA and a dietary aide to be below appropriate serving temperatures. These findings demonstrate a consistent failure to serve meals according to the planned menu and at safe, appetizing temperatures.