Archived: Real Life Options - Pegasus Lodge

We observed good care practice and spoke with the three staff on duty. We spoke with two close family members who had called into the home. They were both happy with the care their relative received. One told us " They are really good, they know all of them so well. I never worry because they know what they are doing."

Staff communicated with people effectively and we oberved that people made their preferences known. We saw records which showed us that people's capacity to consent to care and support was assessed and that staff made sure that people's views were acted on.

People's care needs were assessed and we saw plans of care with risk assessments where needed to make sure people received the care they needed.

Staff were well recruited to make sure only suitable staff were employed who would fit into the home and offer the care people needed.

The service had a comprehensive quality assurance system which meant the manager montored the safety and quality of the service and acted on her findings to make sure the service improved.

Care records of all people who use the service were examined. There was documentation in each care plan of a 'This is my life' document which identified the likes and dislikes of people. Care plans had information on people having choices, for instance people were shown two types of clothing and were able to choose what they wanted to wear, and what type of products they liked when getting bathed.

There was good information on families being involved in decision making and that they acted in the best interest of people. Where family involvement was limited staff acted in the best interests of people.

Care plans had information on people's dietary needs and their likes and dislikes. People were given three meals per day and had snacks in between if they wanted them. Menus were healthy and varied.

Staff said there was enough staff to meet the needs of people living in the home. Staff also said that if a person was having an activity that required an individual carer take to take thoseout then other staff would be brought in to cover that person's absence.