Failure to Provide Palatable and Properly Prepared Food
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure that food and drink provided to residents was palatable, attractive, and served at a safe and appetizing temperature. Specifically, one resident with multiple medical diagnoses, including diabetes, morbid obesity, and multiple sclerosis, reported receiving an undercooked baked potato and lukewarm vegetable soup. Observations and interviews confirmed that the resident was served a half-baked potato, which he saved to show to staff, and that the quality and temperature of food varied from day to day. The resident had not discussed these issues directly with the dietary manager at the time of the incident. Staff interviews revealed that meal trays were delivered to the dining room and rooms after being checked by a nurse, with drinks passed out first. A test tray prepared for surveyors showed food items at varying temperatures, with some items not at appropriate serving temperatures. The facility's policy required food to be prepared in a way that conserved nutritive value, flavor, and appearance, but the observed practices and resident reports indicated this standard was not consistently met.