complaint·February 18, 2025

Administrator denied that the facility had an outbreak due to incorrect handling of food prepared at the facility. Administrator indicated that they were advised of the concern of hair in food, but was unsure of the origin. An interview with Dining Director indicated that the only complaint they received was for the lack of food options and denied receiving a complaint regarding residents getting sick from the food. LPA conducted interviews with additional staff members who indicated that they were unaware of any foodborne illnesses at the facility between August 2023 and November 2023. It was also advised there were no concerns of issues and concerns regarding food preparation. Information obtained from interview with Resident 1 (R1) stated they found food on their plate and alleged it was due to staff not wearing a hairnet. It was also reported that R1 became ill after eating the food and the facility was advised of the concern. Interviews conducted with two (2) of the three (3) residents named in the complaint revealed that they became ill after eating the food served at the facility. The residents could not remember the exact dates that they became ill. Additional interviews with residents indicated that they had not experienced any issues with hair in their food and did not become sick from eating food prepared at the facility. A review of documentation revealed that Community Care Licensing (CCL) did not receive any food borne outbreak reports during the period from August 2023 to November 2023. Also, there were no reports or documentation of residents being medically evaluated outside of the facility. During a visit conducted on 03/27/2024, kitchen staff were observed wearing the proper kitchen gear, including hairnets and uniforms. It was documented on a previous visit conducted on 11/03/2023, the LPA did observe staff to be without hairnets. LPAs did not observe any health and safety concerns. Based on information obtained, the allegations that residents became ill after eating food served at the facility and that a resident found hair inside the food and on plates are unsubstantiated. Although the allegations may have occurred or may be valid, there is not enough evidence to prove that the alleged violations did or did not occur. Therefore, the allegations are unsubstantiated. An exit interview was conducted, and a copy of this report was discussed with and provided to the Administrator, Rance Leth.