Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
Surveyors observed that the facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program, resulting in the presence of fruit flies and evidence of mice in multiple areas, including the administrative area and three of seven units reviewed (3rd, 4th, and 6th floors). Multiple direct observations were made of fruit flies in dirty utility rooms, resident rooms, nursing stations, conference area bathrooms, hallways, and resident kitchens over several days. Mouse droppings were also found on the floor in a resident's room, and two residents reported seeing mice in their rooms, with one stating that mice came out at night through the vents. Interviews with staff revealed inconsistent awareness and reporting of pest sightings. Some staff stated they had not seen pests, while others acknowledged occasional sightings of fruit flies, particularly near food. The facility's policy required staff to log pest sightings in a vendor book for weekly follow-up by an outside pest control vendor, but not all staff were aware of or had used this process. The Director of Dietary and the Interim Director of Housekeeping confirmed awareness of fruit flies in various units, and audits of kitchenettes and dining areas were performed, though the frequency was unclear. Despite these measures, the presence of pests persisted in multiple areas of the facility.