Failure to Follow Pest Control Policy Resulting in Ongoing Roach Infestation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to follow its pest control policy for four residents, as evidenced by multiple observations and staff interviews. Housekeeping and CNA staff reported seeing roaches in hallways and resident rooms, particularly in the downtown west hallway, with sightings beginning as early as March or April. On the day of the survey, several resident rooms had been recently sprayed for pests, with doors closed and signs posted requiring ventilation. One resident attempted to enter his room but was redirected by an LPN due to recent pesticide application. Residents also reported seeing roaches in their rooms, and a resident pointed out a roach-like bug to the surveyor, which was confirmed by staff. The pest control technician was called to the facility on the day of the survey in response to a work order for bugs in resident rooms, which had been submitted earlier that morning. The facility's pest control policy requires maintaining an effective program to eradicate and contain pests, including regular treatment of the facility's exterior and prompt reporting of issues between scheduled visits. Despite this policy, staff and residents reported ongoing pest sightings over several months, indicating the facility did not effectively implement its pest control measures.