Insufficient Dietary Staffing Resulting in Use of Disposable Dishware
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide sufficient support personnel to safely and effectively carry out the functions of the food and nutrition service, as evidenced by multiple observations and interviews. During breakfast and lunch meals, residents were served food and drinks in disposable Styrofoam containers and cups rather than standard dishware. The Dietary Manager confirmed that when the department is short-staffed, disposable products are used because cooks are unable to assist with washing dishes, and verified that there was insufficient staff for food and nutrition services. A resident reported that meals are always served on disposable products and expressed a preference for regular dishes, noting that standard dishware is only used occasionally. These findings were observed during several meal services and were confirmed through staff and resident interviews.