Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an environment free from pests, as evidenced by multiple resident and staff reports of cockroach sightings and direct observations of deceased cockroaches in resident areas and food service locations. Three residents, all of whom were cognitively intact and had various medical conditions such as congestive heart failure, diabetes, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, reported seeing cockroaches in their rooms and bathrooms. Staff members, including an LPN, RN, and CNA, also confirmed seeing cockroaches or unidentified bugs in the facility. During observations, surveyors found deceased cockroaches in critical areas such as under the food preparation table, under the bread cart in the kitchen, in the dining room corner, and near the ice machine. The dietary supervisor verified these findings. Review of the facility's pest control policy indicated an expectation to eradicate and contain pests, but the presence of cockroaches throughout the facility demonstrated a failure to implement an effective pest control program. This deficiency was identified under a complaint investigation and represented continued non-compliance from a previous survey.