Failure to Monitor and Document Food Storage Temperatures
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food was stored and prepared in a safe and sanitary manner, as required by both the Wisconsin Food Code and the facility's own policies. Surveyors observed that refrigerator and freezer temperatures, including those in semi-trucks used for food storage, were not consistently monitored or documented. The temperature log only accounted for one cooler and one freezer, despite the presence of multiple units, and no temperatures were recorded after a certain date. Staff interviews revealed confusion and lack of direction regarding which units required temperature monitoring, and some staff reported difficulty accessing the semi-truck units to obtain readings. Additionally, there was an incident where a truck malfunctioned, resulting in spoiled food that had to be discarded. The deficiency had the potential to affect all 47 residents in the facility, as perishable food items may not have been stored at safe temperatures. Staff, including the Food Service Specialist and kitchen staff, acknowledged that temperature checks were not being performed as required and were unsure why documentation had ceased after the removal of some coolers and freezers. The Nursing Home Administrator confirmed that all coolers, refrigerators, and freezers should be monitored and recorded daily, but this was not being done in practice.