24 February 2021
During an inspection looking at part of the service
The service is a Victorian style property with facilities on two floors. Bedrooms have en-suite toilet and washing facilities. There is a secure garden area at the rear of the property.
We found the following examples of good practice.
Systems were in place and Government guidance was being followed to help manage the risks and prevent the spread of COVID-19
Visitors to the service were prevented from catching and spreading the infection because safe and effective measures were in place. This included a vigilant check by staff to take people’s temperatures on entry, the completion of symptom questionnaires, and the prompting of the use of hand sanitiser and/or handwashing. Visiting times were staggered and attractive screening had been installed between the lounge and dining area so that people could meet and see their loved ones safely.
When visits were not possible people were supported to maintain contact with relatives through the use of mobile phones and sending letters. The registered manager and provider made contact with relatives every week to check they were well and to keep them updated. During the summer months people had been supported to have outside visits.
People were supported to access the community safely, and consideration had been given to additional activities to support people’s mental health and well-being.
Staff had received infection, prevention and control training, they wore PPE correctly, understood the importance of it, and spoke confidently about how they put it on and took it off in line with infection control guidelines.
The environment was clean and tidy throughout. Cleaning routines at the service had been increased which now included high touch areas, such as door handles and light switches. Staff understood the importance of regular handwashing to reduce the risks of transmission.
The provider participated in regular COVID-19 testing of people, staff and visitors. Best interest discussions had taken place when people had been assessed as lacking capacity to understand and make an informed decision about testing. Social stories had been used to help people understand and prepare to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
The registered manager had a good understanding of infection, prevention and control guidance and was confident in their decision-making processes, liaised with relevant agencies, and knew how to access local support.
To assess and monitor ongoing infection and control practices within the service, the registered manager had spot checks in place. Should an outbreak occur the registered manager had a contingency plan in place and staff were confident about what action to take.