What the CQC found at Allington Court Care Home

People generally received their medicines when they needed them. The inspector observed safe techniques during a medicine round.

“People were supported to receive their medicines safely.” from the report

The provider completed the required recruitment checks before staff worked with people.

“A disclosure and barring service (DBS) check and satisfactory references had been obtained for all staff before they worked with people.” from the report

Staff and relatives said managers were approachable and supportive. Managers responded to the concerns raised and began making changes.

“Relatives and staff gave positive feedback on the responsiveness of the management team.” from the report

Inspectors were assured about infection prevention, use of protective equipment and managing infection risks.

“We were assured that the provider was using PPE effectively and safely.” from the report

Some risk assessments did not explain the risks clearly or tell staff what to do. Inspectors found that staff were not always aware of people's risks.

“Risk assessments did not identify the risk to the person and steps to take if they had a fall.” from the report

One person who needed thickened fluids was given two drinks that were not thickened. Inspectors said this created a risk of aspiration.

“At the time of the inspection the person had been given two drinks that where not thickened, this put the person at risk of aspiration.” from the report

Some people could not use call bells and said they had sometimes felt anxious and lonely while unable to get help. The provider began hourly checks for people who could not use call bells.

“People did not have always access to call bells in their bedrooms to call for assistance when needed.” from the report

Inspectors found that call bells and bed sensors were not always considered carefully for each person. The provider was asked to review whether these measures were appropriate and necessary.

“We recommend the provider reviews the use of the use of potential restrictive practices such as, call bells and bed sensors across the service to ensure these are appropriately used and regular reviews are completed.” from the report

Audits and action plans existed, but they did not always identify problems with risk management, restrictive practices and medicines. This meant some improvements were not found promptly.

“Some of these audits did not identify failings in the quality of care.” from the report