Failure to Maintain Pest-Free Environment in Dining Areas
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain a pest-free environment, as evidenced by multiple observations of gnats and ants present on food trays and in dining areas. During an initial tour with the DON, dinner trays from the previous day were found in the Gardenia, Apple, and Peach unit dining areas, with gnats and ants observed on the trays and food. The DON confirmed the presence of these pests during the tour. Further observations included gnats on a resident's meal tray while eating breakfast, with both the resident and an LPN confirming that gnats are often present. Additional inspection revealed multiple gnats on all four spouts of a juice machine in the Peach unit, with confirmation from another LPN. Review of pest control work orders indicated recent treatment for gnats and ants, though light gnat activity was still noted and no ant activity was observed at that time. Cleaning schedules indicated that dining rooms are to be cleaned after each meal and trays taken to the kitchen, but trays were found left out with food and pests present. The facility's pest control policy states an intent to eradicate and contain pests, but the observations and interviews demonstrate that pests were not effectively controlled, affecting all residents in the facility.