CHAPTER 16 | Participate in Regulatory Agency Surveys
• Address any issues promptly and document maintenance activities.
• Keep records of equipment inspections and repairs.
Quality Assurance and Audits • Conduct regular internal audits of the foodservice department to assess compliance with certification requirements.
• If applicable, participate in external audits or inspections conducted by regulatory bodies or certification agencies.
Collaboration With Other Team Members
• Foster collaboration between the foodservice department and RDN or NDTR to ensure seamless coordination in providing nutritionally-appropriate and high-quality meals.
• Share information and work together on continuous improvement initiatives.
Information about Regulatory Change
• Stay updated on local, state, and federal standards related to foodservice in LTC facilities.
• Adjust policies and procedures to align with any new or updated regulatory standards.
Feedback and Continuous Improvement
• Encourage feedback from clients and staff regarding the quality of food and dining services. Use this feedback to identify areas for improvement.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives based on feedback and audit findings.
During the QIS
A CDM, CFPP may be asked to provide documentation and pertinent information such as nutrition screening and assessment data, and nutrition care plans during the survey. The surveyors also will check the policies and procedures and expect to see proof that the department is following them. Surveyors will focus on interdisciplinary care areas, looking for evidence of both continuity and timeliness of care. The CDM, CFPP will be responsible for producing:
• Information about the facility’s emergency water source. • Schedule of meal times. • Locations of dining rooms. • Copies of current menus including therapeutic diets. • Policy for food brought in from visitors. • QAPI plan. • Client roster with diet order, adaptive equipment, etc.
Nutrition Fundamentals and Medical Nutrition Therapy
Regular audits and collaboration ensure high-quality food service in LTC facilities.