Failure to Maintain Effective Pest Control Program
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to maintain an effective pest control program as required by its own policies, resulting in ongoing infestations of cockroaches and ants throughout resident rooms, bathrooms, and common areas. Multiple residents reported seeing cockroaches in their bathrooms, bedrooms, dresser drawers, and even on their bodies and personal items. Observations confirmed the presence of live cockroaches and ants in various locations, including behind soap dispensers, in dresser drawers, and on floors and walls. Photographic evidence was obtained of live insects, pest droppings, and black bio growth in resident areas and on personal belongings. Staff interviews revealed that pest sightings were being logged, but the problem persisted and was not fully addressed. Several staff members, including LPNs and the Housekeeping Supervisor, acknowledged the ongoing issue with roaches and described their own actions to kill or report pests. The pest control company’s logs indicated that treatments were not consistently performed because rooms were not prepared for service, and the technician eventually stopped weekly visits due to unresolved structural and sanitation issues. Documentation showed gaps in pest control services and incomplete follow-through on pest control recommendations. Residents expressed embarrassment and distress over the pest infestations, with some avoiding showers or having family members assist in killing insects during visits. The pest control company’s records and statements from facility leadership confirmed that pest control visits were inconsistent and that recommendations for structural and sanitation improvements were not implemented in a timely manner. The deficiency was further evidenced by direct observations of live pests and pest droppings in resident living spaces and common areas, as well as by resident council minutes and pest sighting logs.