Atkinson Dental Practice

On this page

• Overview
• Learning culture
• Safe systems, pathways and transitions
• Safeguarding
• Involving people to manage risks
• Safe environments
• Safe and effective staffing
• Infection prevention and control
• Medicines optimisation

We found this practice was providing safe care in line with the relevant regulations and had taken into consideration appropriate guidance.

Find out what we look at when we assess this area in our information about our new Single assessment framework.

The judgement for Learning culture is based on the latest evidence we assessed for the Safe key question.

The judgement for Safe systems, pathways and transitions is based on the latest evidence we assessed for the Safe key question.

The judgement for Safeguarding is based on the latest evidence we assessed for the Safe key question.

The judgement for Involving people to manage risks is based on the latest evidence we assessed for the Safe key question.

Overall, the practice had effective risk identification and management, with staff clearly describing the processes in place. There was an open and transparent culture regarding patient safety, and staff expressed confidence in how risks were being handled, this was supported by our findings. However, we identified a potential electrical installation risk in the decontamination room, which was brought to the attention of the practice manager during the visit. They assured us that this would be promptly reviewed and addressed.

Staff could access emergency equipment and medicines that were checked in line with national guidance. They knew how to respond to a medical emergency and had completed training in emergency resuscitation and basic life support every year. Staff also participated in medical emergency scenario training.

The premises were visibly clean, well maintained and free from clutter. Hazardous substances were clearly labelled and stored safely.

We saw satisfactory records of servicing and validation of equipment in line with manufacturer’s instructions.

The practice managed fire safety well, and fire exits were clear and well signposted.

The practice had systems for appropriate and safe management of medicines. NHS prescription pads were kept securely, and a log was in place to monitor and track their use.

The practice had systems in place to manage radiation safety; however, some improvements should be made. The Radiation Protection Supervisor (RPS) should complete appropriate training, and all recommended actions identified in the routine servicing report should be documented and fully addressed. The practice should also seek guidance from the Radiation Protection Advisor (RPA) regarding the construction of the dividing walls and ensure the local rules accurately reflect the identified risks.

The practice had a recruitment policy and procedures in line with relevant legislation to help ensure suitable staff were employed. When using agency or locum staff, we discussed with the practice manager the importance of carrying out similar checks before they start work.

The practice ensured clinical staff were qualified, registered with the General Dental Council and had appropriate professional indemnity cover.

Newly appointed staff had an appropriate role specific structured induction.

Staff had the skills, knowledge and experience to carry out their roles. They told us that there were enough staff on duty at all times. They demonstrated a clear understanding of safeguarding and knew how to access relevant information. Staff were also aware of their responsibilities in protecting vulnerable adults and children.

The practice ensured staff training, including continuing professional development, was up-to-date and reviewed at the required intervals.

There were effective processes to support and develop staff with additional roles and responsibilities. Staff discussed their learning needs, general wellbeing and aims for future professional development during annual appraisals, during clinical supervision, practice team meetings and ongoing informal discussions.

Staff felt respected, supported, and valued, expressing pride in working at the practice. They described a great team with easy access to specialists, an organised reception, and a skilled dental nursing team. Many highlighted feeling listened to and appreciated, praising the supportive atmosphere and management. Long-serving staff spoke warmly of the practice as a lovely place to work and a valued part of the local community.

The practice had infection control procedures that reflected published guidance.

Staff received appropriate training and demonstrated knowledge and awareness of infection prevention and control processes.

Staff used personal protective equipment and decontaminated dental instruments after use, in line with national guidance. We saw, and staff confirmed that single-use items were not reprocessed.

The practice had effective procedures to reduce the risk of Legionella, or other bacteria, developing in water systems, in line with a risk assessment and current guidance.

The practice had protocols to ensure effective cleaning and safe segregation and disposal of hazardous waste.

Equipment was maintained and serviced in line with manufacturers’ instructions.

The practice completed infection prevention and control audits in line with current guidance.

The judgement for Medicines optimisation is based on the latest evidence we assessed for the Safe key question.