Failure to Maintain Effective Bed Bug Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program to eradicate bed bugs, which had the potential to affect all 113 residents. Multiple residents reported being displaced from their rooms after staff discovered bed bugs in their beds. Staff responded by bagging linens and personal items, showering residents, and relocating them to other rooms. One resident stated that the CNAs woke them up to spray the room and remove sheets, while another resident described being moved out of their room overnight and having their belongings bagged. A CNA supervisor confirmed that bed bugs were found during rounds, and a CNA described the issue as ongoing, stating that the facility was infested with bed bugs. The Maintenance Director reported spraying every room and common area upon arrival and stated that daily inspections and spraying of hotspots were conducted. However, review of pest control invoices revealed that the last general pest control service was in April, with the most recent specific bed bug treatment occurring in December of the previous year. The facility's pest control policy required an effective program, but the documentation and staff interviews indicated that the bed bug problem persisted and was not being effectively managed.