Pest Control Deficiency at Deer Meadows Rehabilitation Center
Penalty
Summary
Deer Meadows Rehabilitation Center was found to be non-compliant with the requirement to maintain an effective pest control program, as outlined in 42 CFR Part 483.90(i)(4). Observations and interviews conducted during an abbreviated survey revealed significant pest issues on one of the facility's nursing units, specifically Bair 1. On March 10, 2025, a unit manager was observed killing roaches in the hallway, and both staff and residents reported sightings of roaches and mice in various areas, including resident rooms. Resident R5 reported seeing numerous roaches and mice in her room, and roach bait was observed to be full of roaches. Another resident, R6, also reported seeing roaches and bugs in his room. A review of pest control reports from the previous two months indicated ongoing pest issues. On February 7, 2025, roach activity was noted throughout Bair 1. On February 25, 2025, mice activity was reported in the maintenance shop and heavy mice activity was observed in the kitchen. Rooms 113, 100, and 102 were reported to have mice and roaches, with recommendations for better sanitation in room 100. On March 5, 2025, roach activity was reported in room 106 on Bair 1, but treatment was hindered by the presence of a sleeping resident. The Nursing Home Administrator confirmed the presence of roaches and mice in the facility during an interview on March 10, 2025.
Plan Of Correction
The provider submits the following plan of correction in good faith and to comply with Federal regulation. This plan is not an admission of wrongdoing nor does it reflect agreement with the facts and conclusion stated in the statement of deficiencies. Rooms with exterminator baited boxes that were full were removed from the rooms. Deep cleaning and exterminator treatment of all rooms in Bair 1 was completed on 3/25/2025. Bair 2 deep cleaning/exterminator treatment will be completed by 4/1/2025. All staff will be educated by staff educator/designee about logging all pest concerns by room number or location in the exterminator log book. Deep cleaning and treatment will be completed by the exterminator for rooms and identified locations. The Director of Housekeeping will complete a weekly audit of rooms in Bair 1 for sanitation, and baited boxes. If a box is full, it will be removed, and the room will be logged in the exterminator book for another treatment. The audit will be completed weekly for 4 weeks, then monthly for 2 months. The Director of Maintenance will complete a weekly audit on a different day from the Housekeeping Director for baited boxes. If a box is full, it will be removed, and the room will be logged in the exterminator book for another treatment. The audit will be completed weekly for 4 weeks, then monthly for 3 months. Reports of audits will be presented at Monthly QAPI until substantial compliance is achieved.