Delayed Lunch Service Due to Dietary Staffing Shortage
Penalty
Summary
Facility staff failed to serve lunch in a timely manner on one of three units, specifically Unit One. On the observed date, the last food cart for lunch arrived on Unit One at 3:50 p.m., and the last lunch tray was served at 4:10 p.m. This was significantly later than the scheduled meal times, as the first lunch food carts are typically sent to the floor at 11:45 a.m. Staff interviews confirmed that there was insufficient dietary staff available on the day in question, which contributed to the delay in meal service. The account manager for dietary acknowledged that the observed delay was not acceptable for residents and that residents should not have to wait for their meals. The facility's policy requires that at least three daily meals be provided at regular times comparable to normal mealtimes in the community, and that meal and snack times be coordinated with residents and relevant administrative staff. Despite this policy, the observed delay in meal service on Unit One was attributed to staffing shortages in the kitchen, as confirmed by staff interviews. No additional information or explanation was provided by facility administration prior to the survey exit.