Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement and maintain an effective pest control program to eliminate mice, as evidenced by multiple documented sightings and the presence of mouse droppings in various areas, including the kitchen and dry storage. Pest control inspection reports over several months indicated repeated mouse activity, with staff often failing to log sightings or take consistent action. Observations revealed mouse droppings near traps, improperly stored food items, and unsanitary conditions such as spilled molasses, dried salsa, and unsecured bags of chips in the kitchen and storage areas. Staff interviews confirmed that doors to the outside were frequently propped open, which pest control personnel identified as a significant factor in allowing pests to enter the facility. The dumpster outside the kitchen was routinely left uncovered, and food waste was visible, further attracting pests. Housekeeping and dietary staff described inconsistent cleaning routines, with tables and floors often left with crumbs and food debris, especially overnight when housekeeping was not present. Nursing assistants were expected to clean tables after dinner, but observations showed food residue remained on surfaces into the morning. Staff also reported that residents sometimes kept food in their rooms without proper containers, and clutter in some rooms could conceal pest activity. Despite the facility's policy requiring all food to be stored in covered containers and for staff to report all pest sightings, there were lapses in both food storage and reporting. For example, a dead mouse found by an LPN was not logged, and the pest sighting log had not been updated for several months despite ongoing activity. Interviews with the administrator and maintenance staff revealed a lack of awareness of recent mouse sightings and inconsistent communication regarding pest control measures. The pest control company reduced its inspection frequency due to perceived decreased activity, but staff and pest control personnel acknowledged that mice were still present, particularly at night. The facility's own pest control policy outlined preventive measures such as keeping doors closed, using self-closing doors, and ensuring proper food storage, but these measures were not consistently followed. The combination of propped open doors, uncovered dumpsters, improper food storage, and inadequate reporting and cleaning contributed to the ongoing pest problem affecting all residents in the facility.