Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a consistent and effective pest control program, as evidenced by the presence of multiple live cockroaches in the shared room of two residents. During an observation, one resident moved his nightstand and air freshener, revealing multiple cockroaches both running and inside the air freshener. Both residents expressed discomfort and dissatisfaction with the ongoing cockroach issue, stating it made them feel dirty and creepy. A CNA confirmed seeing cockroaches in resident drawers and coming out of the walls, validating the residents' complaints. The Maintenance Director acknowledged that 23 rooms had been treated for cockroaches previously but admitted there was no follow-up to determine if the treatment was effective. The Director of Nursing also recognized that the presence of cockroaches was unsanitary and could make residents feel gross. The facility's pest control policy requires an ongoing program to keep the building free of insects and rodents, and the maintenance director's job description includes ensuring the facility is maintained to protect the health and safety of residents. Despite these policies, the observed infestation and lack of follow-up contributed to the deficiency.