What the CQC found at Clare Hall Nursing Home

Inspectors saw positive interactions between staff and people. Staff understood how to support the people living in the home.

“However, staff knew people well and knew how to support people. During the inspection we observed positive interactions between staff and people.” from the report

Inspectors found safe recruitment checks and enough staff on duty during the visit. Staff did not appear rushed and were available when people needed them.

“There was enough staff on duty to meet people's needs. Staff did not appear rushed and were available when people needed them.” from the report

Medicines were stored safely, storage temperatures were checked and stock balances were monitored. Staff giving medicines had training and competency checks.

“Medicines were stored safely, and ongoing stock balance checks were carried out. Temperature of storage areas were monitored.” from the report

The home was visibly clean, with cleaning schedules and enough protective equipment. The laundry arrangements kept dirty and clean linen separate.

“The environment was visibly clean. A relative told us it was, "Spotlessly clean.” from the report

Staff said communication and the atmosphere had improved under the new management. The home had introduced more training, supervision and checks of staff practice.

“Staff spoke highly of the management changes.” from the report

Records did not always show whether people had enough to drink or whether concerns had been escalated. This was especially important for someone identified as at risk of dehydration and malnutrition.

“There was nothing recorded to indicate if staff had noted the poor fluid intake or if this had been escalated to the nurse in charge.” from the report

One person's moving and handling needs had changed, but the care plan and handover sheet had not been updated. Some other care plans did not give enough detailed, person-centred guidance.

“However, the care plan had not been updated to reflect this. The handover sheet we were provided with had also not been updated.” from the report

Wound photographs did not always include measuring tools. This made it harder for nurses to tell whether wounds were improving or getting worse.

“This meant it would be difficult for nurses to easily assess if wounds were improving or deteriorating.” from the report

Records did not consistently show that creams and lotions had been applied. Patch application sites were also not always rotated as required.

“Although some people's records showed this took place, it was inconsistent.” from the report

The new electronic records and quality checks were still being introduced. Audits did not always find or resolve ongoing problems with recording important information.

“However, these checks did not always identify and address where there continued to be concerns with the recording and communicating of important information about people's needs.” from the report