What the CQC found at Alpine Lodge

Inspectors saw a friendlier, more person-centred culture and said the provider had made progress since the previous inspection.

“There were clear signs of improvement at the service, which was reflected in feedback from people and external stakeholders.” from the report

The home was clean and inspectors were assured that infection prevention arrangements, including the use of protective equipment, were effective.

“The premises were clean and there was good infection control practice in place.” from the report

Medicines were received, stored, given and disposed of safely. Audits were carried out and action was taken when problems were found.

“Medicines were received, stored, administered and disposed of safely.” from the report

Staff received training relevant to their roles and people's needs. Staff also received formal supervision to discuss their development.

“Staff were receiving appropriate training, which was relevant to their role and people's needs.” from the report

Care had become more person-centred. People were offered choices, their rooms were personalised, and staff supported dignity and independence.

“The model of care helped to maximise people's choice, control and independence.” from the report

Some risk assessments and care plans were out of date, contradictory or missing information. This could lead to people receiving unsafe or unsuitable care.

“Risk assessments had not been updated to reflect significant changes in people's care and support needs.” from the report

Records for people at risk of losing weight were not consistently completed. Staff could not always tell whether people were eating and drinking enough.

“These records were inconsistently kept. This meant staff could not be sure whether those people were eating and drinking enough to improve their health or remained at risk.” from the report

People and staff reported delays and shortages, particularly at night, with reliance on agency staff who might not know people's needs. Staffing was increased during the inspection.

“There's not always enough staff, sometimes you have to wait such a long time when you buzz” from the report

The home's audits did not identify all the problems found by inspectors. Management systems had been introduced but were not yet effective enough to show that improvements were sustained.

“Audits did not identify all of the issues we found during the inspection, such as people's care records did not accurately reflect their care and support needs.” from the report

Inspectors did not see activities during the visit. Records showed activities had taken place on only eight days in October.

“Activity records showed there had been only 8 days of activities for people to join in October.” from the report

Not all staff giving medicines had completed the competency assessment required by the provider's own policy. The manager said this would be addressed.

“However not all staff had an assessment of their competency to administer medicines completed in line with the providers own policy.” from the report