Failure to Maintain Sanitary Food Storage and Preparation Practices
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to maintain sanitary conditions in the kitchen, as evidenced by several observations. A 26-inch fan coated in dust was found blowing directly onto clean meal tray covers, tray bottoms, bowls, cups, and glasses stored on a metal shelving unit. The fan's position and condition resulted in dust being blown onto these clean items. Inside the walk-in refrigerator, multiple food storage issues were identified: uncovered bowls of mixed fruit were left exposed on a ladder rack, a Ziploc bag containing sliced Swiss cheese was left open to the environment, and a sandwich wrapped in paper was found without a name or date label. Additionally, a food processor that was stated to be clean and ready for use was found with standing water inside the bowl, a wet blade, and a wet lid, indicating it had not been properly air-dried as required by facility policy. Staff interviews confirmed that these practices did not align with facility procedures. The staff member acknowledged that the fruit bowls should have been covered, the cheese bag closed, and the sandwich labeled with a name and date. The food processor was also recognized as improperly dried, which could allow for bacterial or mold growth. The staff member agreed that the dusty fan should not have been blowing into the kitchen and that it was contaminating clean items. These findings were communicated to facility administration, including the administrator, DON, nurse consultant, and an administrator colleague.