Milk Left at Room Temperature Beyond Safe Timeframe
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that milk was not left at room temperature for more than two hours for three residents. Observations revealed that cartons of milk were left on the tables of three residents after being delivered with their lunch trays, and the residents indicated they would consume the milk later. The Dietary Services Supervisor confirmed that residents were encouraged to finish the milk before two hours elapsed, but the milk was observed to be left out beyond the recommended time frame. The facility's policy required dairy items to be kept under refrigeration until use and stored below 41 degrees Fahrenheit. The residents involved had various medical conditions, including generalized muscle weakness, hypothyroidism, dysphagia, dementia, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Their assessments indicated moderate cognitive deficits and varying levels of assistance required with eating and bed mobility. The Dietary Services Supervisor acknowledged that milk should be consumed or disposed of within two hours of leaving the kitchen to prevent bacterial growth, as per facility policy and food safety standards.