Dietary Aide/Dishwasher

Job Description: Park Forest Care Center Dietary Aide

Position Overview:

As a Dietary Aide at Park Forest Care Center, your role is crucial in ensuring the nutritional needs of residents are met. You will assist in the preparation and service of meals, while maintaining a clean and sanitary environment in accordance with dietary guidelines and regulations. Your responsibilities will include food preparation, tray assembly, assisting with resident dining, and collaborating with the kitchen team to deliver high-quality meals and excellent service to the residents.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Food Preparation: Assist in the preparation of meals by measuring, cutting, and assembling ingredients according to recipes and dietary requirements. Follow established portion control and quality standards to ensure consistent meal service.

2. Tray Assembly: Prepare and assemble trays for individual residents, ensuring accuracy and adherence to special dietary needs, allergies, and preferences. Coordinate with kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of meals.

3. Resident Assistance: Provide support to residents during meal times, including assistance with seating, serving meals, and ensuring their dietary restrictions and preferences are met. Respond promptly and courteously to resident inquiries or requests.

4. Sanitation and Safety: Maintain a clean and sanitary work environment, including food preparation areas, equipment, and dining areas. Adhere to food safety and infection control guidelines to prevent cross-contamination and ensure the safety of residents and staff.

5. Inventory Management: Assist in monitoring and managing food and supplies inventory. Notify the supervisor of any shortages or stock discrepancies. Properly store and rotate food items to minimize waste and maintain freshness.

6. Dishwashing and Cleanup: Assist in the dishwashing process by scraping, rinsing, and loading dishes into the dishwasher. Clean and sanitize kitchen utensils, equipment, and work surfaces. Ensure proper disposal of waste and maintain cleanliness in the dining area.

7. Communication and Teamwork: Collaborate effectively with kitchen staff, dietary aides, and other team members to ensure smooth operation and timely meal service. Communicate resident preferences, feedback, and special requests to the appropriate personnel.

8. Compliance and Documentation: Adhere to all dietary guidelines, regulations, and facility policies. Complete required documentation accurately, such as meal counts, temperature logs, and other records as directed.

Preparing SNACK TRAYS for a dietary aide involves the preparation and assembly of individual snack trays or plates that meet the dietary needs and preferences of residents in a long-term care nursing home. These snack trays are typically served between meals or as a supplement to the main meals:

1. Menu Planning: Collaborate with the dietary manager or supervisor to determine the types of snacks to be included in the trays. Consider dietary restrictions, allergies, and preferences of residents when selecting snack options

2. Special Dietary Needs: If there are residents with specific dietary needs or allergies, ensure that their snack trays are prepared separately and are free from any potential allergens or restricted ingredients. Including portioning and preparing specific serving sizes needed for each individual.

3. Documentation: Keep accurate records of the snacks prepared and served, including any special instructions or modifications made for individual residents. This documentation helps ensure proper tracking of dietary intake and enables the dietary team to provide personalized care.

4. Delivery and Service: Coordinate with dietary aides or other staff members responsible for distributing the snack trays. Ensure timely delivery to residents, making sure to consider any specific dietary instructions or preferences during the distribution process.

Preparing ALWAYS AVAILABLE FOOD ITEMS as a dietary aide involves ensuring that there are readily accessible and nutritious food options for residents in a long-term care nursing home outside of regular meal times. These items are typically kept stocked and available throughout the day to accommodate residents' varying schedules and preferences. Here's an overview of the process:

1. Menu Planning: Collaborate with the dietary manager or supervisor to determine the always available food items to be offered. Consider a range of options to cater to different dietary requirements and preferences.

2. Nutritional Considerations: Select food items that are nutritious, balanced, and appropriate for the residents' dietary needs.

3. Stock Management: Ensure an adequate supply of the always available food items by monitoring inventory levels regularly. Check expiration dates and rotate stock to maintain freshness.

4. Preparation and Portioning: Prepare or assemble the always available food items according to established recipes or guidelines.

5. Labeling and Packaging: Properly label the food items with names, dates, and any allergen information if applicable. Package them in suitable containers or packaging to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.

6. Temperature Control and Safety: Monitor and maintain proper temperature controls for perishable items to prevent foodborne illnesses. Regularly check refrigeration units or heating devices to ensure they are functioning correctly.

7. Hygiene and Sanitation: Follow strict hygiene and sanitation practices when handling and preparing the always available food items. This includes regular handwashing, using gloves when necessary, and sanitizing surfaces and utensils.

8. Documentation: Keep accurate records of the always available food items prepared and served. This helps with tracking inventory, monitoring resident preferences, and ensuring compliance with dietary regulations.

Qualifications and Skills:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

• Previous experience in a similar role or familiarity with food service operations is beneficial.

• Knowledge of basic food safety and sanitation principles. ServSafe Certification is a plus.

• Understanding of dietary restrictions, allergies, and special dietary needs.

• Strong organizational skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact compassionately and respectfully with residents.

• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods, lift and carry trays, and perform repetitive tasks. Must be able to lift up to 50lbs.

• Flexibility to work varying shifts, including weekends and holidays, as required.