25 February 2022
During an inspection looking at part of the service
We found the following examples of good practice.
A ‘booking in’ procedure was in place for visitors to the home including, evidence of a negative lateral flow test, COVID-19 vaccination, temperature taken and a health questionnaire. This helped prevent visitors spreading infection on entering the premises.
The home facilitated face to face visits, in line with government guidance. Any changes to government guidance was implemented immediately. Visitors were kept up to date with any changes through telephone, email and written communication.
Visits were conducted in people's own rooms to minimise any traffic within the home. The home planned to install a marque in the spring to enable visitors the choice of visits in the open air. Alternatives to in-person visitation, such as virtual visits, were supported, as and when necessary.
The home also offered 'step down beds' for people requiring a short period of respite following a stay at hospital. People were admitted safely and in line with the most up to date government guidance.
People and staff were tested regularly for COVID-19. Staff employed at the home had been vaccinated, to help keep people safe from the risk of infection. Some staff had received their COVID-19 booster vaccinations.
Individualised risk assessments for both people and staff were used to help minimise risk of infection transmission. Assessments were also used for people and staff who were deemed to be more clinically vulnerable to the risks of COVID-19.
The home was clean, hygienic and homely. Paintwork in some communal areas was chipped which could impede effective cleaning, but the home had plans in place for a refurbishment, and planned to increase more domestic staff to help implement good infection control practices.
Laundry facilities were located in an outbuilding separate to the home, which helped minimise risk of infection from contaminated laundry.
Infection control policies and procedures helped ensure that the home adopted best practice which complied with current guidance. Cleaning schedules and audits were in place to help maintain cleanliness and minimise the spread of infection.
Staff were trained in how to put on and take off PPE. Posters located near PPE stations acted as a visual reminder to staff on good practices and the home had adequate supplies of appropriate PPE. Staff had also received training in effective infection prevention and control practices.
The manager maintained links with external health professionals to enable people to receive the care and intervention they needed.