Kitchen Equipment and Dishware Not Free from Residue Accumulation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that kitchen equipment and dishware used to serve residents were free from visible residue accumulation, as observed during a kitchen tour and confirmed through staff interviews and record review. Food preparation equipment, including a food processor, pots, pans, and dishware, were found to have significant white or gray residue, making it difficult to determine if items were clean. The Dietary Manager acknowledged the residue, attributing it to a hard water issue that had persisted for at least two months due to the lack of salt for the water softener. Staff reported that while silverware was soaked in vinegar to improve appearance, they were unable to adequately clean plates, cups, bowls, and other equipment. Dietary staff interviewed during the survey expressed concern about the appearance and cleanliness of the dishware, with one aide stating that the residue made it hard to tell if items were clean and describing the condition of a coffee pot as "disgusting." Staff indicated that the issue had been ongoing and was embarrassing, with some staff choosing to bring dishware from home rather than use the facility's items. The Maintenance Director confirmed that a billing issue with the salt provider had prevented timely delivery of water softener pellets, resulting in the hard water residue. The director stated that the facility was unable to purchase the necessary quantity of salt independently and had been attempting to resolve the issue with the provider. Residents interviewed expressed uncertainty and dissatisfaction regarding the cleanliness of their cups and dishware, with some stating they did not know if the items were clean and others expressing skepticism or discomfort about using dishware with visible residue. The Nursing Home Administrator acknowledged that residents should have visibly clean dishes and equipment for food preparation. The accumulation of residue on food-contact surfaces and dishware was observed to affect all residents in the facility.