18, 27 January 2011
During a routine inspection
People who used the service had a variety of needs with a number of them experiencing difficulties in relation to their dementia. We observed staff generally interacting with them in a positive and supportive manner and visiting relatives confirmed people who used the service were involved in decisions about the support that they needed.
People who used the service were observed to be clean and well cared for and visiting relatives confirmed they were kept well informed of incidents or accidents concerning their wellbeing.
People who used the service were observed to generally enjoy their meals and visiting relatives told us this was of good quality.
People who used the service confirmed they had regular contact with their GP and other health care professionals and their case files contained evidence their needs were being appropriately monitored.
Visiting relatives told us the service was responsive to any concerns made and people who used the service told us they knew who to complain to if they were unhappy.
It should be considered whether the storage of monies held on people's behalf, in one non interest paying bank account, is in their best interests. Advice should be sought from the people's advocates over their financial interests.
We observed domestic staff working hard to ensure the home was kept clean and tidy and relatives told us staff worked well to ensure people who used the service were well cared for and their dignity respected.
Whilst we did not receive any direct comments from people who used the service about the management of their medication, we did observe that a doctor was visiting to review the medication for one person who used the service whose needs had changed and that management checks were carried out of their medication records to ensure people who used the service were kept safe from harm.
People who used the service and their relatives told us that there had been some 'big improvements' to the environment and that their rooms were kept nice and comfortable.
People who used the service and their visiting relatives told us that staffing levels were generally satisfactory and we observed nurse call systems being answered promptly. However, due to previous concerns and the continually changing needs of people who used the service, the staffing levels and skill mix should be monitored and reviewed more effectively.
Whilst we did not receive any direct comments from people who used the service about the competency of staff in the home, they did indicate that overall they were happy with the level of service provided and staff confirmed they were provided with training to help them do their jobs.
We observed that the needs of people who used the service were being appropriately monitored and that systems were in place to ensure that they and their relative's views are listened to, so that they can influence the running of the home.
We observed that people's individual records were being securely stored and that they were generally well completed to ensure their welfare was appropriately maintained.