Complaint Investigation Report

Allegation #2: Staff are not providing adequate food service to residents.

The complaint alleges that the facility staff is not providing adequate food services to residents. It has been reported that staff members were licking their fingers and touching the food served to residents. No further details have been provided concerning this allegation.

On April 24 and April 26, 2025, between 09:30 AM and 10:45 AM, the Department interviewed staff members identified as Staff #1 and Staff #5 through Staff #9. (S1) and (S5-S9). Six (6) out of the six (6) staff members could not validate this allegation. (S1) stated they were not aware of any misconduct by food service staff regarding safe handling practices. (S5-S9) claimed safe handling practices for kitchen workers include regular handwashing, preventing cross-contamination, thorough cooking and reheating of food, and maintaining food at safe temperatures. They clean and sanitize surfaces and equipment frequently, store food properly, and be aware of fire safety. (S5-S9) claimed they are provided with a Waitstaff Job Specific Checklist, OSHA & Safety Training, and Food for Safety for Food Handlers training. (S5-S9) asserted that the waitstaff must wear appropriate clean uniforms, aprons, hair restraints, and gloves. Additionally, the information from (S5-S9) clarified that contaminants are carefully managed and never served to their residents in care. Ensuring their safety and well-being is their top priority.

On April 26, 2025, between 10:35 AM and 04:15 PM, the Department interviewed resident members identified as Resident #4 through Resident #11 (R4-R11). Eight (8) out of the eight (8) resident members could not corroborate this allegation. (R5-R11) emphasized that they have consistently observed the kitchen staff practicing safe food handling. (R5-R11) praised the kitchen staff and servers as courteous, efficient, and providing excellent service.

On April 24, 2025, between 11:00 AM and 03:45 PM, the Department interviewed witness members identified as Witness #1 through Witness #4 (W1-W4). Four (4) out of the four (4) family representatives claimed to have no issues with the food services provided by Atria Hacienda staff. (W1-W4) stated that during resident visits, they have never observed any violations of quality or safe food handling standards.