Widespread Kitchen Sanitation and Pest Control Deficiencies
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain the kitchen in a safe and hygienic manner, resulting in unsanitary conditions and pest infestations. Direct observations revealed significant water damage in the kitchen and basement, including missing and collapsing ceiling tiles, moist surfaces, and water beading near food preparation areas. The kitchen floor was covered in sticky substances and food particles, with blackened grout in high-traffic areas. Multiple sticky traps containing rodent droppings, fur, and insects were found near dry storage, and peaches past their expiration date were served to residents. Small worm-like insects and insect eggs were observed in floor drains filled with food debris, and rodent droppings were found under and in front of the oven. Mold-like substances were present on sponges and in floor drains, and kitchen equipment was covered in grime. Unlabeled and open bags of food were found in freezer units. Staff interviews confirmed ongoing issues with rodents, cockroaches, ants, and flies in the kitchen, with several staff members reporting daily sightings of mice and expressing frustration over the lack of management response. Staff described the kitchen as extremely dirty and difficult to clean, with years of accumulated grime and recurring flooding during heavy rain. Cleaning logs were missing or incomplete, with the last documented logs dating back several months. The pest control contractor's records noted ongoing sanitation issues, such as standing water and accessible garbage, but did not document pest activity, which was inconsistent with staff and resident reports. The dietary manager and other staff confirmed frequent rodent activity, including the discovery of mouse nests and droppings in food storage areas. Residents and staff reported an increase in gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea and vomiting, over the past month. Several residents and staff attributed these symptoms to the food served at the facility, with some residents reporting persistent diarrhea since admission. The infection preventionist did not track single-day episodes of gastrointestinal symptoms, but surveillance records documented multiple cases of diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, including one resident hospitalized with colitis. The kitchen and storage areas were found to have food containers contaminated with mouse droppings, dead maggots, and sticky residues, further indicating a failure to protect food from contamination and maintain sanitary conditions.