6 November 2012
During a routine inspection
We visited the intermediate care and rehabilitation ward which had 18 patients. We met and exchanged greetings with the majority of patients, but spoke with eight in depth.
Patients told us that they were very satisfied with the care and treatment they had been provided with from the unit. They found staff kind and helpful. They felt that staff were competent. They confirmed that there was usually enough staff on duty to respond quickly to call bell requests for help. Patients understood the progress of their treatment and proposals for their discharge. Where delays had occurred they understood the reason for this.
We saw staff supporting patients in a discreet and efficient manner with due regard for their privacy and dignity. We heard staff seeking patients consent prior to carrying out any care tasks.
We found the premises were maintained to a good standard of cleanliness. Appropriate procedures were in place to ensure good infection control practice was followed and maintained. We saw that auditing systems to review the delivery of care were in use and informed improvements.
Staff told us that their training was updated but records of this were poorly maintained. Staff said they had access to staff meetings, and felt well supported by their managers who they found 'approachable'. Staff had received some supervision. However, this was infrequent and we brought this to the attention of the ward manager.