The Care Quality Commission (CQC) Has Warned A Bournemouth Care Home It Must Improve
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has told a care home in Bournemouth it must improve rapidly in order to meet desired standards.
Enforcement action was taken on Dalvey House on Belle Vue Road in the Southbourne area of the town last month and the CQC has now released the full details of its inspection.
An investigation into the facility found that systems were not put in place to assess the health, welfare and safety of residents, something that the CQC said had a "moderate" impact on people who use the its services.
While relatives of those in the home spoke positively about its care provision, inspectors were concerned that a medication audit only checked quantities of stock and did not ensure that people were protected from the risks associated with these drugs.
Additionally, while an infection control audit took place, there were a number of flaws in this investigation. For example, cleaners neglected to make sure that blinds in peoples' rooms were not covered in dust, dirt and grime - something that could have led to health problems among more vulnerable residents.
Record keeping is a hugely important part of any care home's regime and this must be considered a priority as the exact cause of injuries, falls or infections must be found in order to eliminate poor practice.
A statement released by the CQC as part of its inspection into Dalvey House read: "We looked at the personal care or treatment records of people who use the service, carried out a visit on September 13th 2013, observed how people were being cared for and talked with people who use the service.
"We found the home did not have a robust quality assurance system in place to ensure standards in the home were maintained."
Bosses at the home will now have to send a report by November 21st that will set out actions aimed at improving standards. An unannounced inspection will take place to ensure changes are made.
Expert Opinion
Following the CQC’s findings, it is important that an action plan is put into place 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 they had not been complying with the strict guidelines in terms of infection control and cleanliness and therefore potentially putting patients at serious risk. Urgent action is required in this case to ensure that facilities are brought up to standard as patient safety should be the number one concern. <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