28 February 2022
During an inspection looking at part of the service
We found the following examples of good practice.
¿People who used the service were supported to maintain contact with their relatives and friends, which included face to face visits. The provider had created a visiting ‘pod’ as part of its actions to facilitate safe visiting that reduced the risk of infection. Clear information was provided for people and their visitors to enable them to follow the provider’s visiting procedures, for example the need for visitors to demonstrate a current negative Lateral Flow Device (LFD) test and answer relevant questions about their health before they were permitted to meet up with their family member.
¿The provider had an assigned area for donning and doffing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Staff were observed to be properly wearing their PPE and confirmed there were plentiful supplies of PPE, including suitable products which could be obtained for staff with specific allergies. Posters were displayed to remind people, staff and visitors about correct hand washing protocols. Staff had received infection prevention and control (IPC) training from the provider, which included training developed by a local health partner organisation.
¿The registered manager demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of their responsibilities and had worked closely with local health and social services to manage a COVID-19 outbreak prior to this inspection visit. Systems were in place for the regular testing of people who used the service, staff, essential carers and visitors. The premises were hygienically maintained.
¿There were beneficial practices in place to support the wellbeing of people and staff during the pandemic. ‘Isolation care plans’ were developed for people who had to isolate in their bedrooms. These plans contained individual guidance for staff that was tailored to people’s needs, interests and wishes. For example, if people liked to read a daily newspaper, do jigsaw puzzles or play board games with staff, and whether they wished to use a telephone or other electronic device to keep in touch with relatives. The provider had an established welfare scheme for employees which offered telephone support when they were unwell and away from work, as well as support when staff returned to Bluegrove House. For example, a phased return to work or the allocation of lighter duties.