Use of Disposable Cups and Containers During Meal Service
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that residents dining in the facility's dining room were served beverages in Styrofoam cups and prepackaged juice cups, rather than in standard dining ware. During multiple meal services, staff distributed milk and water in Styrofoam cups, while juices were provided in small cartons or foil-covered cups. Coffee and tea were served in coffee cups, and some food items, such as strawberries, were served in disposable containers. One resident was observed with multiple beverage containers, including cartons and Styrofoam cups, at their dining table. The Dietary Manager explained that the use of Styrofoam cups was due to a shortage of regular cups, as several had gone missing and replacements had not yet arrived. The facility had some regular cups available, but not enough for all residents. These practices did not promote an environment that maintained or enhanced residents' quality of life or recognized their individuality, as required by regulations regarding dignity and respect in resident care.