Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program as required by its own policy, resulting in the presence of flies and ants in multiple areas, including the dining area, hallways, and resident rooms. Observations included flies landing on a resident's leg and foot during an interview, as well as reports from several residents about persistent fly infestations in their rooms and throughout the facility. Some residents reported that flies landed on their food during mealtimes, and others mentioned having to use fly swatters or sticky strips to manage the problem themselves. Ant strips covered with ants were also observed in one resident's room. Residents with varying degrees of cognitive impairment and intact cognition voiced concerns about the ongoing pest issues, with some stating they had reported the problem to staff but had not seen any improvement. Maintenance staff acknowledged awareness of the fly problem and indicated that pest control services were provided on a scheduled basis, but could not confirm any specific plan in place to address the current infestation. Facility records and staff interviews confirmed that the pest control program was not effectively implemented to prevent or address the presence of pests as required by policy.