Persistent Mold-like Substance in Walk-in Refrigerator Due to Inadequate Reporting and Cleaning
Penalty
Summary
A deficiency was identified when surveyors observed a dark black/green substance present on all four walls of the walk-in refrigerator in the facility's kitchen. The substance was also found in a large area under the refrigerator rack and adjacent to the walk-in freezer door, extending to the floor. During an interview and observation with the Dietary Manager, it was revealed that the dietary staff cleaned the walk-in refrigerator weekly, but the substance continued to reappear. The Dietary Manager did not know what the substance was and had not reported its recurrence to the Maintenance Director or the Administrator. Further interviews with the Maintenance Director and the Administrator confirmed that neither had been informed about the persistent presence of the dark substance. The Maintenance Director, upon observation, stated the substance appeared to be mold, possibly due to condensation from the refrigerator door not being closed properly. The Administrator acknowledged seeing the substance but was unaware of its recurrence and that the Maintenance Director had not been notified. No information was provided regarding any residents directly affected by this deficiency.