Lack of On-Site Dietitian Oversight in Food and Nutrition Services
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that a registered dietitian (RD) provided the required on-site oversight of the food and nutrition services department. After the resignation of the full-time RD, the facility arranged for a part-time RD to provide services remotely for approximately 10 hours per week. This RD was not available during regular day shift hours and completed all dietary documentation and nutritional assessments remotely. The corporate RD also did not conduct on-site supervisory oversight, including staff training, direct observation of residents for nutritional assessments, or monitoring of meal services. A review of the RD's job description indicated that the position required on-site administrative duties, participation in facility surveys, and involvement in quality assurance programs, none of which were performed on-site after the full-time RD's resignation. The facility did not provide the necessary on-site oversight and consultation by a qualified dietitian or clinically qualified nutrition professional, as required by federal regulations, resulting in a deficiency related to the management and oversight of food and nutrition services.