Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure effective pest control, resulting in the presence of flies, gnats, and mice in multiple areas, including resident rooms and common spaces. Staff interviews revealed that excessive numbers of flies were present in the halls, and both staff and residents reported frequent sightings of mice, particularly in two residents' rooms. Staff resorted to using fly swatters during medication passes and in resident rooms, and residents who were able kept fly swatters at hand. Reports of mice in resident rooms were made to administration, and staff noted that the pest control measures in place were not effective. Observations confirmed the presence of multiple flies and gnats in at least one resident's bedroom, with flies seen on drinking cups and bedside tables. Residents reported direct encounters with mice, including a mouse on a bed and daily sightings in their rooms. Maintenance staff acknowledged ongoing issues with mice and flies, and stated that organic peppermint oil spray was used in an attempt to address the problem, but mice continued to be seen. The pest control vendor had provided recommendations for more aggressive treatment, but the facility opted to try in-house remedies instead. Review of pest control records showed that while monthly standard services were performed, several recommendations from the pest control vendor remained unaddressed by the facility. These included repairing door gaps, fixing water leaks, cleaning debris, and cutting overgrown vegetation, all of which were identified as the facility's responsibility. The facility's pest control policy stated that appropriate chemicals and methods would be used to control pests, but the ongoing presence of pests and unaddressed recommendations indicated a failure to maintain an effective pest control program.