Yeovil Renal Unit

This was the first inspection for this newly registered service. Our overall rating of effective at Yeovil Renal Unit was good. 

We looked for evidence that people and communities had the best possible outcomes because their needs were assessed. There was a policy covering the assessment of new patients, and each patient received an individualised care plan. Although we found the care plans did not cover some co-morbidities, such as heart disease, smoking and depression, we were told all co-morbidities were discussed in regular team meetings and renal clinics. Blood results and other key performance indicators were regularly monitored and discussed to optimise patient outcomes. There were close links with the local NHS trust and the Home Dialysis team. 

Patients were active partners in their care and were encouraged to undertake shared care training competencies. Shared care is where the patient actively participates in their own haemodialysis treatment, taking on certain tasks and responsibilities under the guidance of healthcare professionals. 

Staff understood the consent process, including for those with communication difficulties. 

National guidance was referred to for the care of patients with diabetes, and staff knew what to do when patients became ill, including responding to hypoglycaemic emergencies (when the blood sugar level drops too low).