Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program Resulting in Gnat Infestation
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to implement and maintain an effective pest control program, resulting in the presence of gnats in multiple areas, including a resident's room, the kitchen, a hallway, and the nurses' station. Observations revealed that a resident was found in bed with food crumbs on the linens and floor, and several gnats flying around and landing on her bed and bedside table. The resident reported that the gnats had been present for some time and were bothersome, though she had become accustomed to them. Housekeeping staff confirmed that the room was cleaned regularly and that gnats were noted, particularly due to food being consumed in the room. The Director of Environmental Services acknowledged that food spills and delayed meal tray pickups contributed to the gnat problem in the resident's room. In the kitchen, multiple observations during meal service documented gnats flying around and landing on bread rolls. The Director of Food Services was aware of the issue and attributed it to gnats coming from the drains, noting that bleach was used in the drains and monthly fumigation was performed. Despite these efforts, gnats continued to be observed in the kitchen, posing a risk of food contamination. Additional observations found gnats in a hallway and at the nurses' station, with staff interviews confirming that gnats had been seen in these areas and that sightings were recorded in the pest control log. Review of pest control service agreements and logs showed that pest control services were performed monthly, with additional treatments as needed when issues were reported. However, pest logs indicated repeated reports of gnats in various locations over several months. Invoices from the pest control company documented treatments for gnats, but also noted occasions when gnats were not addressed. The facility's pest control policy was requested but not provided during the survey.