Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an environment free of pests, as evidenced by the presence of flies, gnats, and a roach in resident areas and other parts of the building. Observations included black flying insects around a resident's breakfast tray, which interfered with the resident's ability to eat and drink. Staff interviews confirmed that gnats were present in several rooms, particularly during the summer months, and that the primary method of control was to remove meal trays quickly. Staff reported pest sightings to their supervisors, but there was no indication of a systematic or effective pest control response prior to the recent intervention. Additional observations included a live roach in another resident's room and multiple flies in the medication room. A review of facility records showed a previous grievance regarding a bug in a resident's room. The facility's pest control policy required an effective program, but the presence of pests and staff accounts indicated that the program was not adequately preventing or addressing infestations at the time of the survey. Residents affected included those with moderate to severe cognitive impairment, some of whom were unable to communicate their concerns about pests.