15 January 2021
During an inspection looking at part of the service
We found the following examples of good practice.
¿ The service was receiving professional visitors with infection control procedures in place. Visitors were health screened and had their temperatures checked by on arrival. Handwashing facilities and alcohol gel were made available and all visitors were required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE).
¿ The service had been providing screened visits in a ‘garden room’ with robust procedures in place. Visits were limited and were by appointment only, with times allocated to avoid potential infection transmission with other visitors. Visits had been temporarily suspended due to an outbreak of COVID-19 at the service, which had been communicated openly with people and relatives. The interim manager confirmed that relatives were frequently updated with regards to the services’ position regarding future visits.
¿ The service had taken steps to alleviate feelings of loneliness or isolation being experienced by people. Staff were allocated to support people’s wellbeing and this team were involved in developing activities for people and supporting telephone and video calls to their relatives and friends.
¿ The service was clean and hygienic. Robust cleaning schedules were in place, which were methodically completed throughout the service. Senior staff completed daily checks and ‘walkarounds’ of the building, alongside regular infection prevention and control audits. Action was promptly taken to address any issues identified.
¿ Staff were provided with a designated preparation area on arrival to and departure from the service. PPE donning and doffing stations were placed throughout the building, with ample PPE supplies available. Staff were seen to be maintaining social distance and adhering to the PPE guidance and protective measures in place.
¿ The provider had developed a package of policies and procedures in response to the coronavirus pandemic.