18 December 2020
During an inspection looking at part of the service
We found the following examples of good practice.
¿ Effective systems were in place to ensure visitors to the service followed government guidelines for wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Facilities were available to wash and sanitise their hands. Visitors were required to answer screening questions prior to entering the service. Temperatures of visitors were taken and recorded.
¿ There was plenty of PPE including masks, gloves and aprons. PPE stations and hand sanitiser dispensers were located around the service.
¿ All staff had been trained in current Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) guidance and in the use of PPE. There were designated areas for donning and doffing of PPE and handwashing facilities were easily accessible to people and staff. We observed staff followed current guidance and practice throughout our visit.
¿ A regular programme of testing for COVID-19 was in place for staff and people who lived in the service.
¿ Enhanced cleaning took place daily. The environment was clean and hygienic. A ground floor room had been converted to allow safe visiting for relatives and friends of people. Visitors could access this room without walking through the main building.
¿ Regular audits to make sure staff complied with current guidance and practice took place. Concerns identified were acted on without delay.
¿ The service's IPC policy was up to date and in line with current guidance. The service had plans in place and knew how to respond to an outbreak of infection to ensure the safety of people and staff.
¿ People admitted to the service were supported following government guidance on managing new admissions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Further information is in the detailed findings below.