Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program, as evidenced by multiple observations of mouse droppings in various areas including the medication room, laundry room, and several resident rooms and closets. Residents and staff reported ongoing sightings of mice, with one resident stating that mice were caught in their room and another describing a mouse running across their chest while sleeping. Mouse droppings were also found on residents' personal clothing and in common areas. The facility's pest control policy requires maintaining a pest-free environment, but the presence of droppings and live mice indicates this was not achieved. Interviews with staff revealed that glue traps and other measures were used reactively, and the exterminator reported only servicing common areas and offices, not resident rooms, due to residents often being asleep. The exterminator was aware of a mouse problem and had recently added bait boxes outside, but there was no indication that a comprehensive or proactive approach was in place. The administrator was unaware of the mouse problem, and the maintenance director had recently quit, further contributing to the lack of an effective pest control program.