Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control in Kitchen
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program, resulting in the presence of flies in the kitchen area. During a kitchen tour, the surveyor observed an open floor drain next to a grease trap with many flies coming from the drain, in the air, and on the wall. The Food Service Director (FSD) acknowledged the presence of drain flies and stated that the grease trap needed cleaning. The FSD also reported that exterminator treatments had not resolved the issue due to the open drain. A pest control logbook provided by the FSD indicated weekly visits from the exterminating company, but there was no documentation of specific treatments or areas addressed in the kitchen. Subsequent observations by surveyors confirmed the continued presence of flies near the dish machine room. Interviews with the Director of Environmental Services (DES) and the Regional Property Manager revealed they were unaware of the fly issue in the kitchen. Review of exterminator invoices showed that kitchen pests had not been addressed in recent visits, and one invoice indicated no service was performed due to a state survey. The administrative team, including the Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA), Director of Nursing, and Chief Clinical Officer, were made aware of the concern. The LNHA later stated that exterminator treatment for flies had occurred about a month and a half prior, but no specific documentation was available. Facility work orders and policies reviewed did not address the fly issue, despite policies stating the facility would maintain an effective pest control program and keep kitchen areas protected from insects.