complaint·September 29, 2022

(Continue from LIC9099) It was further alleged that since June 23, 2022, R1 had visible skin irritations and had been experiencing itching from what appeared to be bed bug bites. It was alleged that despite multiple reports to facility management regarding the situation, no actions had been taken by the facility to treat the infestation. On August 4, 2022, the Department conducted a tour of the facility that included a full inspection of six residents’ rooms, which revealed no signs of a bed bugs. During the inspection of the rooms, it was observed the bed mattresses were clean and had clean mattress covers and bed sheets, in good condition. The fabric-covered chairs located next to the beds in each of the rooms were inspected as well. There was no observable evidence of bed bugs in the rooms inspected on August 4, 2022. In addition, records reviews confirmed that the facility had an active contract agreement with a certified pest control company since November 18, 2014. Review of the terms of the pest control contract indicated that facility inspections were performed every 30 days and treatments were applied when required. Per staff interviews two separate inspections were conducted by two different certified pest control companies on July 26, 2022 and August 1, 2022, of three rooms, R1's room and the two adjacent rooms next R1's room. A third inspection was also conducted of R1's room on September 14, 2022. Review of the inspection reports indicated no findings for bed bugs and no treatments were necessary. Per interviews with outside sources, it was confirmed that there had not been any pest infestations other than occasional ant problems which were treated accordingly. Staff interviews with direct care staff were inconsistent; however, the majority of staff indicated that they had not observed bed bugs in the residents’ rooms and they also reported that residents had not expressed concerns regarding bed bug bites Interviews with outside sources consistently indicated they had never observed a bed bug and did not report any issues with bed bugs. Interviews with facility staff revealed that when the bed bug claim was reported they took immediate action. Facility staff identified six (6) residents that were having symptoms of itchy skin, immediate medical attention was provided, two (2) residents were diagnosed and treated for scabies. The other four (4) residents including R1 skin irritations were treated for dry skin and possible eczema. Review of residents’ medical records confirmed the information provided. The rooms were deep cleaned, two mattresses for hospice residents were replaced and linens were thoroughly washed and sanitized. (Continue LIC9099C Based on observations, interviews with key staff and outside sources, and review of pertinent pest control inspection reports, there was insufficient evidence found to support the allegation that facility staff did not treat bed bug infestation. Due to a lack of evidence, the allegation is deemed to be unsubstantiated. A finding that is unsubstantiated means that although the allegation may have happened or is valid, there is not a preponderance of the evidence that the alleged violation occurred. An exit interview was conducted with RSD, Orana to whom a copy of this report, LIC 811 and Licensee Appeal Rights (9058 01/16) were provided at the conclusion of the visit.