Archived: Drake Nursing Home

Staff understood the principles of consent and ensuring people were asked for their consent before treatment was given. Where this was not possible decisions were made in people's best interests following the principles of the Mental Capacity Act (2005) and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards. This meant people's human rights were respected.

We found care records accurately reflected the care people were receiving. Assessments had been completed to identify risk and these were incorporated in to people's care plans. Staff knew people well and were able to respond to their subtle changes in mood and presentation to keep them safe and well.

We found there was a robust system in place to ensure the safe handling and storage of medicines. Regular audit identified any issues in this area and actions were promptly taken to address any areas identified.

Staff told us they felt there was ample training. Essential training was frequent but staff were also encouraged to do additional courses to improve their clinical skills and take lead roles in areas such as infection control. Supervision and appraisal were regular and staff felt supported.

We talked with people who used services, relatives and the staff. We checked the provider's records, and looked at four care records of people who used services.

We talked with or met all of the people who lived in the home and the staff on duty. We saw people's privacy and dignity being respected at all times. We saw and heard staff speak to people in a way that demonstrated a good understanding of people's choices and preferences. Due to people's complex needs not many were able to make comments about the staff.

The relatives were all complementary about the home environment, food, staff and the care they received. Their comments included, 'Brilliant staff' and 'Couldn't have picked a better place'.

We talked to people using the service, relatives and staff about how people were kept safe. We were told by a relative, 'I know my mum is safe here'.

Staff were clear about the actions they would take should they have any concerns about people's safety.

We looked at medication systems and we found that the management of prescribed and controlled medication was not managed consistently. The qualified nurse in charge assured us that this would be addressed promptly.