Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control in Resident Room and Dining Area
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program, resulting in the presence of flying insects in both a resident's room and the communal dining area. Observations confirmed that flying insects were present in a male resident's room, who had end-stage renal disease and intact cognition, and the resident reported that flies were consistently present in his room as well as in the kitchen and dining areas. The resident described the situation as disgusting. During meal service in the communal dining area, multiple flying insects were observed, causing residents to swat at them as they landed on their bodies and food. The same resident confirmed that flies were always present during meals, which he found disruptive and dirty. The facility administrator acknowledged awareness of intermittent insect issues in the facility, including in residents' rooms, but was unaware of the specific incident in the dining area. Review of the most recent pest control invoice documented the discovery of a significant number of fungus gnats and included recommendations for prevention, such as removing standing water, repairing damaged floors and walls, and fixing faulty plumbing. Despite a request, the facility's pest control policy was not provided prior to the survey exit.