Heartbeat: CQC City spot check praises elderly care

January 24, 2020

Elderly care at City Hospital has been praised as “safe and effective” following an unannounced inspection.

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) carried out the spot check on City Hospital’s two elderly care wards, D26 and D11.

The inspectors praised the recently introduced “blue pillows” initiative which uses cushions to elevate patient heels, relieving pressure and reducing the risk of pressure ulcers. It also helped staff to identify quickly the patients on the ward who were at risk.

The report highlights safeguarding training as an area for improvement along with ensuring all patient records were completed and updated within the recommended timeframe. However, it also found patients at risk of pressure ulcers and pressure damage, were reviewed correctly by clinicians who could easily access special equipment to relieve symptoms.

Those who were not able to eat properly received supplements in the form of readymade milkshakes and juices and were properly monitored. Colleagues were able to speak to dietitians and seek advice from tissue viability nurses when needed. It added that staff were competent in their roles and were supported by their manager, whilst they were also able to make decisions for those patients who did not have the capacity.

Toby Lewis, Chief Executive, said: “We welcome this inspection’s findings which are consistent with our own assurance – that our staff are dedicated and caring. Mandatory training is something we complete annually and by the end of each fiscal year we are confident of complying with our standards.”