Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program for Bed Bugs
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program, as evidenced by the presence of bed bugs in the rooms of two residents. Approximately three weeks prior to the survey, bed bugs were found in the room shared by these residents, prompting their temporary relocation. One resident reported the discovery of bed bugs, while the other was unaware of the reason for the move. During the survey, a bed bug was observed crawling on one resident's bed, and multiple dried blood spots were noted on the bed sheets. Upon further inspection, multiple bed bugs were found under the mattress. The maintenance staff confirmed the presence of bed bugs and acknowledged that the pest control company had previously treated the room with chemicals, and that belongings were bagged and laundered. However, there was no documentation of follow-up inspections or confirmation that the new rooms to which the residents were moved were inspected for bed bugs. Record review showed that the facility's pest control service had documented the initial bed bug finding and treatment, but there was no evidence of subsequent inspections or monitoring to ensure eradication. The facility's own policies require inspection of the affected room, adjacent rooms, and the new room to which residents are relocated, as well as the use of non-chemical control measures when practical. These steps were not documented as completed. The lack of follow-up and failure to inspect new rooms upon relocation contributed to the ongoing presence of bed bugs, affecting the residents involved and potentially the entire facility population.