23 November 2020
During an inspection looking at part of the service
We found the following examples of good practice.
¿ The provider had ensured that policies and procedures relevant to infection, prevention and control were up to date. COVID-19 guidance was also kept updated for staff to reference.
¿ Infection control audits were completed so that any shortfalls could be identified and addressed. On-going monitoring of staffs’ usage of personal protection equipment (PPE) ensured this was used in line with current national guidance.
¿ Cleaning records were maintained and the environment looked clean and bedrooms and communal rooms had been decluttered to support easier cleaning. Refurbishment of the lounge had included new and wipeable armchairs.
¿ Designated family members had been supported to visit their relative safely. An area within the home had been used for visiting and cleaned after each visit. Relatives were supported to wear appropriate PPE and meet hand hygiene requirements. Arrangements were in place to keep relatives informed about necessary changes in visitor guidance. Support had continued to be in place to enable a family member to support their relative at the end of their life.
¿ Admissions to the home were only accepted if staff were confident they could safely support a person, following their admission and in line with relevant COVID-19 guidance. People had to have a negative COVID-19 test result before admission and be able to self-isolate, with support, for 14 days after admission.
¿ All people and staff were tested in accordance with current COVID-19 national guidance for care home testing. People were given reassurance during the time of testing and only tested at the time they were able to agree to this.
¿ Staff monitored people closely to be able to identify any changes in wellbeing which may indicate potential infection. Staff knew who to contact if they suspected a person had signs of infection.
¿ Social distancing had proved difficult to maintain when supporting people in their everyday activities. Action had been taken to reduce people’s risk of becoming infected because of this. This included a one hundred percent uptake in testing staff and people in line with national guidance for care homes. Staff avoided the use of public transport when travelling to work and they limited their social interactions outside of work. Staff wore appropriate PPE when in close proximity to people and agency staff were not used. A whole home Flu vaccination program was almost completed.
¿ People’s end of life wishes and their treatment preferences had been reviewed, with them and their representative/s in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Where decisions had been made on people’s behalf and in their best interests, this had involved both relatives, staff and the person’s GP.
Further information is in the detailed findings below.