Failure to Provide Resident-Selected Menu Items and Accommodate Food Preferences
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to provide food that accommodated resident allergies, intolerances, and preferences, as well as appealing options, for all 12 residents reviewed. According to facility policy, individual food preferences are to be assessed upon admission and communicated to the interdisciplinary team, with modifications made only with resident or representative consent. However, interviews with multiple residents revealed that the dietary department did not serve all items listed on meal tickets and did not provide requested alternates. Residents reported receiving repetitive food items, such as rice and eggs, and being unable to obtain alternatives when requested. During a resident council meeting, it was noted that menu items were substituted without notice, and meal trays were often missing several items. Observations confirmed that specific items, such as milk, diet cola, Ms. Dash, and diet ginger ale, were not provided as ordered. Staff interviews indicated that food carts were frequently late and residents did not consistently receive all items on their trays. The Nursing Home Administrator confirmed the failure to provide resident-selected menu items for all 12 residents reviewed.