31 March 2011
During a routine inspection
People using the service told us that they were not informed of the services available to them in the form of a leaflet or brochure when they first arrived on the wards, but that staff were very helpful and told them what they needed to know. Visitors told us that visiting hours were displayed on a notice board.
People told us that they understood about the care and treatment they were receiving because staff explained this to them. They told us that the doctor and therapy staff visited them on the wards and when changes were made they were explained to them. A relative told us that they felt informed about changes. People are not involved in the care records relating to them and do not record their involvement or agreement to care provided.
People told us that the meals provided at the hospital included enough choice and variety and that the standard of the food was good. They told us that staff would always provide an alternative if they didn't like what was on offer.
People using the service told us that they felt safe. They told us that they felt able to complain to staff if there was a problem and were confident that the appropriate action would be taken.
People on the wards and staff told us that the hospital was clean and we saw that the general standard of hygiene appeared to be good.
We saw that the records were not stored securely and were located so that they were accessible to members of the public. We also observed that some records were not accurate and fit for purpose. The provider has already acknowledged shortfalls in this area and is making changes to the current documentation used.