Policy and SOP

Policy Number: 001

Effective Date: March 16, 2017

Policy Title: Room Service Delivery

Authority: Food Service Director

Purpose: To describe the process of delivery of food to all hospital patients in a safe and
timely manner that meet standards for accuracy, temperature and quality.

Scope: Applies to staff, most specifically Host/Hostesses, that deliver trays to patient
rooms.

Responsible Party: The Clinical Nutrition Manager is responsible for monitoring the
policy.

Key Words: Room Service, Host/Hostess, Patient Identifiers, Nursing Staff, Dietician

Policy Statement: To prepare and serve meals to patient in accordance with high
sanitation standards and physician orders.

Procedure: 1-Use the specially designed carts when delivering trays to patient rooms.
2-Use the elevator that is specially designated for meal cart transport.
3-When carts arrive on the unit, the Host/Hostess passes trays as
assigned. Move the cart quietly and place it against the wall at each stop.
4-Prior to entering patient room, make sure to sanitize hands.
5-Check the door and frame for patient specific concerns.
6-Knock lightly on the door before entering and announce "Room Service.
7-Enter the room slowly and greet the patient by name cordially.
8-Use patient identifiers, (name and birthdate). If the patient is unable to
identify themselves, check the label on the bed.
9-Place the tray on the patients bed stand and adjust as needed. If the
table is not clear and the patient is unable to clear it, notify nursing for
assistance.
10-Remove the plate cover if the patient is ready to eat. Offer to open
containers, assist as needed.
11-If a patient requests assistance with his/her bed, notify nursing. Do Not
touch or move patient.
12-Sanitize hands after leaving each patient room.
12-As time permits, check back with patients to see if they have
everything they need.

Compliance: 1-Host/Hostesses are subject to comply with the policies

 2-The Dietitian will regularly conduct tray accuracy audits checking that all
components of the order are correct, for appropriate food temperatures
and evaluating the appearance of the tray,

Requirements: All staff entering a patients room must be have updated Influenza
documentation

Consequences of a failure to comply: Failure to comply with these policies and

procedures may result in the following disciplinary action.
First offense: Verbal warning and retraining of the policy with a qualified
trainer.
Second offense: Documentation in employee record. Follows appropriate
procedures, including documentation of incident and meetings
with the employee.
Third offense: Cause for implementing the disciplinary process for alleged
insubordination.

Approved by: Alicia Dearborn, Food Service Director

Policy last revised on: March 16, 2017