Ailsa bosses ordered to let there be light
Patients fear injuries
Bosses at a mental health ward have been ordered to brighten things up – over fears patients could injure themselves.
Inspectors from the Mental Welfare Commission visited the Iona, Lewis and Jura wards at Ailsa Hospital in May.
And after walking down an “uninviting corridor” they noted that ward temperatures
The report said: “We were advised that lighting on Jura Ward is poor for the purposes of staff conducting some clinical activities including blood draws and dressing application.”
Inspectors also advised that any outstanding repair and refurbishment work on lights and surroundings should be carried out “as soon as practicable” – after they discovered funding had been set aside six months ago.
En- suite toilets on the wards also came under the microscope, with inspectors recommending doors installed “to maintain the dignity of patients” after they were built without any.
Despite concerns over lighting and temperature, staff working on the ward were praised for using music to treat dementia patients.
Managers have pushed forward with dementia training, and were praised by staff for their work.
The report said: “Nursing staff with whom we spoke provided positive feedback in relation to the medical cover on the wards, advising that they feel well supported, listened to, and valued.”
The report, signed by Mike Diamond, executive director for social work at the Mental Welfare Commission, made seven recommendations.
A s w e l l a s l i g h t i n g improvements, NHS bosses have been advised to bring staff up to speed on the latest laws, produce patient- specific care plans, and ensure the garden area on the Jura ward is well- maintained.