Failure to Serve Meals at Safe and Appetizing Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to serve meals at a preferred temperature for three residents reviewed for food temperatures. Observations and interviews revealed that residents consistently received meals that were not hot, with food and plates often arriving cold. One resident, who was independent with ADLs and cognitively intact, reported repeated experiences of cold food, voiced concerns to the Dietary Manager, and filed a grievance, but noted that nothing was done. Another resident, dependent on staff for ADLs but independent with eating, also reported consistently cold meals, lack of plate warmers or covers, and stated that grievances had not led to any changes. A third resident, with similar dependencies and cognitive status, expressed a preference for hotter meals and reported informing staff about the issue. Staff interviews confirmed awareness of the ongoing complaints regarding cold food. The Dietary Manager acknowledged the purchase of thermal pellets intended to keep food warm but indicated that the necessary warming device had not been approved for purchase, and the kitchen lacked insulated carts. The Administrator was also aware of the issue and stated that additional parts were needed for the plate warmers, but there were insufficient funds to purchase them. Despite food leaving the kitchen at the appropriate temperature, the facility was unable to ensure that meals arrived to residents at a safe and appetizing temperature.