Archived: Accident and Emergency Department

People were protected from the risk of infection because appropriate guidance had been followed. The department was clean and hygienic in appearance. We saw appropriate personal protective equipment was in use, such as gloves and aprons. There were facilities for hand washing which the staff used appropriately.

People were protected against the risks associated with medicines because the provider had appropriate arrangements in place to manage medicines. We saw records which showed the ordering, storage and administration of medicines in the department.

There were enough qualified, skilled and experienced staff to meet people's needs. Patients we spoke with told us they had received a prompt service and had not had to wait to see a member of staff and commence their diagnostic tests.

Patients were protected from the risks of unsafe or inappropriate care and treatment by the records which the staff maintained. These were detailed and stored securely.

People experienced care, treatment and support that met their needs and protected their rights. The people we spoke with said they received good care and support delivered by kind and reassuring staff. One person said; "The staff took time to answer all my questions." Other comments such as excellent, professional and friendly were made about the staff.

We saw there were enough staff to help and support people. However patients had to wait in a full waiting room and referrals had to be turned away by the lunchtime because there was only one consulting room for the use of two doctors and one nurse who required the room to see patients individually and in private.

Staff confirmed they had the skills to meet people's needs and they received opportunities for professional development.

During our visit we spoke with two people who said they were very happy with their treatment and the quality of service provided to them. One person said;" I am tickled pink by the service."