Improper Disposal of Food Trays and Refuse
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to properly dispose of garbage and refuse in one of eight resident halls. Specifically, a food cart containing nine used food trays with cutlery was left unsealed outside the kitchen entrance in a resident hall. Staff interviews confirmed that these trays were from residents who preferred later dinners and that the trays were not promptly returned to the kitchen after use. The LVN acknowledged that leaving trays out posed an infection control issue and created a risk that residents could access and eat leftover food. The Unit Manager and DON both stated that trays should be taken to the kitchen after meals, and the Administrator confirmed that the trays should not have been left in the hall. Record review showed that the facility's policy required all food waste to be kept in containers and stored in a manner inaccessible to pests. The observed practice of leaving used trays and cutlery in the hallway was inconsistent with this policy. Staff interviews further indicated that residents with impaired cognition could potentially access the trays, leading to cross-contamination or injury, and that staff could also be at risk of illness.