Failure to Provide Palatable, Properly Prepared, and Menu-Compliant Meals
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide residents with food that was palatable, properly prepared, and consistent with posted menus, as evidenced by multiple resident and staff interviews, record reviews, and resident council minutes. Residents reported receiving food that was burnt, undercooked (including bloody chicken), cold, and not matching the posted menu. There were repeated complaints about small portion sizes, lack of food variety, and the kitchen running out of menu items, resulting in substitutions or residents not receiving their requested meals. Residents requiring special diets, such as mechanical soft diets, did not consistently receive necessary accommodations like gravy to aid in chewing, due to the facility running out of these items. Staff members corroborated these concerns, stating that food was often burnt, overcooked, or undercooked, and that portion sizes were inadequate. Resident council meeting minutes documented ongoing complaints about food quality, including hard or burnt toast, grilled cheese, and cookies, as well as repeated instances of undercooked chicken being served. Despite grievances being submitted to the administrator, there was no documentation of follow-up or resolution. The issues affected all residents in the facility, as indicated by the resident roster and the scope of complaints.