16 April 2014
During a routine inspection
If you wish to see the evidence supporting our summary please read the full report.
Is the service safe?
We saw that people were treated with respect and dignity by the staff. Care plans had been developed based upon people`s individual needs. A range of risk assessments were in place and reviewed periodically. They were last reviewed in November 2013. The home worked in partnership with the local health care team. District nurses visited daily to support people with their health conditions. People we spoke with told us they were very happy living in the home. One person told us, 'They look after you, they are spot on.'
The registered manager and some of the staff clearly explained how they would take action to identify and prevent abuse from happening in the service. This involved responding appropriately and sensitively when abuse was suspected or was at risk of occurring. Staff had received updated safeguarding training in 2013. The home had a whistleblowing policy. This meant that staff were supported to report any concerns they had regarding any poor practise they observed in the home.
Is the service effective?
People's health and care needs were assessed, monitored and reviewed. People and their relatives were supported to be involved in their plans of care. There was regular contact with local GP`s and district nurse team.
Is the service caring?
We observed people were supported by kind and caring staff. Staff we spoke with told us they had worked at the home for a number of years. This meant they were experienced and had developed a deeper understanding of people`s needs. Tregothnan Care Home is a small home and therefore informal systems were in place to gain feedback form people regarding the quality of services provided at the home.
Is the service responsive?
We saw evidence to show us that the home was responsive when meeting people`s health care needs. The registered provider was also the registered manager in the home. This meant that the care and support provided by the staff team was monitored on a daily basis and immediate action taken if there was any concern. Staff told us they were aware of people`s likes and preferences and devised menus based on this information. There was an assessment in place to identify any specialised equipment required to help people to maintain their independence. We were told that no one required any special diets. Staff worked closely with local GP`s for advice and guidance. Staff we spoke with told us they were aware of what actions to take should they have any concerns regarding people`s dietary needs. Staff at the home weighed people on a regular basis and recorded this information. This meant they were able to monitor for any changes taking place. This showed us the home had systems in place to protect people from the risks of inadequate food and nutrition.
Is the service well-led?
The service worked with other agencies and services to make sure people received their care in a joined up way. The registered manager completed a range of quality audits to monitor and review the quality of the services they provided within the home. This helped to ensure that people received a good quality service at all times.