Inspectors Call On A Huddersfield Care Home To Improve Its Cleaning Practices

Inspectors at the Care Quality Commission (CQC) have raised hygiene concerns with executives at a Huddersfield care home.

Investigations at the Newhey Manor Residential Care Home discovered that people were not properly protected against risks from bacterial infections because of the way that cleaning was managed.

The CQC has now released a report that outlines problems it found at the facility, with one of the main concerns stemming from potentially dirty mattresses.

Inspectors noticed that there was no audit programme created in order to verify whether the correct standards had been followed in regards to bedding, something that could lead to the development of infections or the spread of diseases.

When asked by the CQC to respond to its criticisms, which were also raised in July 2013, with a plan of action to improve standards, the home told investigators that it was complete and would be sent to them, but when a specialist visited this document had not been finished.

Another concern raised by inspectors was the quality of laundry facilities. CQC staff members found that the washing room was "small and cluttered" with general items not in use being stored near vital hygiene equipment.

A sink in the room that should have only been used for hand washing was also used for sluicing and this increased the risk of cross-infection.

In a statement released by the CQC, inspectors commented: "Through discussion with staff we found that the hours rostered for the domestic staff were not accurate. We were told that on average only ten hours per week were utilised for domestic tasks.

"This was not sufficient time to complete the work required so that hygiene standards within the home were improved. We were told that a domestic had recently left employment however had not been replaced."

According to the CQC, care homes across the UK have a duty of care that includes the need to decrease the risk of infection wherever possible by avoiding cross contamination.

Expert Opinion

The latest findings of the CQC show that standards at this care home fall below the recommended level. It is vital that steps are taken to ensure that all staff have the appropriate training so that residents at the care home receive the best possible care, as patient safety has to be regarded as the highest priority for any care provider. <br/> <br/>“It is worrying that, according to the CQC’s reports, the home had not been complying with strict guidelines in terms of infection control and cleanliness – therefore potentially putting patients at serious risk. <br/> <br/>“Elderly people deserve to have access to a high standard of treatment that considers their respect and dignity at all times. It shouldn’t have to take inspections and reports for people to make sure care is of the highest standards.” <br/> Lisa Jordan - Partner