Residentsare wellcaredfor saysHIQAreport
GORMANSTON Wood Nursing Home was the subject of a HIQA inspection recently with a report on the matter published last week.
The inspector found the home was compliant with most of the categories and that patients needs were met and they were well cared for.
A person-centred approach to care was observed and residents expressed satisfaction with the care they received.
The action plan from the last inspection in November 2016 was followed up on. Overall, the inspector was satisfied that actions have been completed.
However, duringthis inspection moderate nooncompliance was found in three of the nine outcomes inspected.
The home was found to be ‘moderately non-compliant’ for Medication Management, Residents Rights, Dignity and Consultation and Suitable Staffing.
The inspections took place on September 19th and 20th.
The inspector found there were written operational policies dated May 2017 relating to the ordering, prescribing, storing and administration of medicines to residents.
Systems were in place for ordering, supply and dispensing methods. However, these policy documents had not been fully implemented as the inspector found unsafe practices in relation to the administration and recording practices of medicines for controlled drugs.
The Inspector also had some concerns regarding staffing levels at the centre and said that while they were approriate while they were onsite, the inspector was not assured that the staffing levels at night were sufficient to ensure that the needs of residents were consistently met.
‘ The allocation of two nurses rostered for night duty was considered to be inadequate for 89 residents inclusive of a 19 bedded Dementia specific suite,’ said the inspector. The Inspector recommended a review of staffing skill mix on night duty. They said a number of relatives and a number of staff who spoke with the inspector expressed concerns about staffing levels at night, particularly whenever additional nursing interventions are required.
A number of nursing staff voiced that at night time they were often under pressure to fulfil their nursing responsibilities such as administering medicines.
The centre was found to be fully compliant on Safeguarding and Safety with measures to protect residents being harmed or suffering abuse in place and appropriate action taken in response to alegations, disclosure or suspected abuse. The inspectors saw that measures had been taken to ensure that residents were protected and felt safe while at the same time had opportunities for maintaining independence.
There were enclosed gardens that residents could access at multiple locations. Communal areas in all units were accessible to residents.
The inspector saw that there were facilities and equipment available to support residents to retain their independence. For example mobility aids, hand rails on corridors and circulating areas.
The report also noted that each resident’s wellbeing and welfare is maintained by a high standard of evidence-based nursing care and appropriate medical and allied health care.
The arrangements to meet each resident’s assessed needs are set out in an individual care plan, that reflect his/her needs, interests and capacities, are drawn up with the involvement of the resident and reflect his/ her changing needs and circumstances.
It was found that policies and procedures are in place for end of life care which staff were familiar with. The Inspector reviewed a number of residents end of life care plans and the detail contained with the files addresses the choice and wishes of residents and families.
The Inspector found that there was evidence of consultation with resident’s and their representatives in a range of areas on a daily basis and a formal resident meeting is held monthly. There was good resident attendance at the meeting and clear evidence that group and individual requests were acted upon. The centre is part of the local community and residents have access to radio, television, newspapers, information and frequent outings to events.
There was evidence of outings that had been organized and enjoyed by residents.
The inspector was also informed of planned trips that are arranged for the coming weeks.