Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control in Resident Rooms
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program, as evidenced by the presence of numerous flying insects in four residents' rooms in Unit C. Observations revealed that insects were seen flying around and landing on residents' beds, personal belongings, pillows, windows, side tables, walls, and curtains. Two residents, both with the mental capacity to make their own decisions, reported ongoing disturbances from the insects, including insects crawling into their noses during sleep and persistent disruption of rest. Both residents stated that the issue had been reported to staff and housekeeping, but no improvement was noted. Staff interviews and record reviews confirmed the ongoing problem. A licensed nurse and the DON both observed and acknowledged the presence of insects in multiple rooms, and the DON confirmed that the issue affected four rooms in Unit C. A maintenance work order had been submitted as a high priority several days prior, specifically noting the presence of moths, but the problem remained unresolved at the time of the survey. The facility's pest control policy required maintaining a pest-free environment, but this was not achieved, as confirmed by staff and documentation.