Hertfordshire & Essex Hospital

At our review of compliance undertaken in November 2012 we identified shortfalls in the supervision of nursing staff and healthcare assistants. In March 2013, the Trust provided evidence to show that they had taken steps to address the shortfalls in supervision.

We saw staff survey results for January and February 2013, these showed that 100% of the staff team had received either 1:1 or group supervision in the previous three months.

We saw results of a patient experience survey on discharge for the period January and February 2013. These showed that 100% of respondents rated the quality of their care as good or better and had confidence in the staff treating them.

People said that they were treated with respect and their dignity was maintained at all times. One person told us, 'The nurses are really nice and kind.' Another person explained, 'Staff ask us if we want help, they don't just do things to us.'

People told us they felt the unit was clean and hygienic, one person said that their bed was moved about daily so that the domestic staff could clean effectively. Another person said, 'It's very clean and tidy, they are always cleaning.'

People told us that they knew what to do if they weren't happy about something. One person told us, 'I'd ask for the sister in charge or the matron if I wanted to make a complaint.' Another person said, 'I would speak to the nurses, nothing is too much trouble.'

People told us that any examination or treatment that they had required had been explained to them first. They told us that they understood why they were in hospital and what was happening with their care.

We observed staff going about their work in a relaxed manner and witnessed care and support being provided in a friendly and cheerful way.