Highcliffe Nursing Home

We found the following examples of good practice.

People, staff and visitors to Highcliffe Nursing Home were protected from risks of infection as policies and staff practices reflected best practice guidance. This included admissions to the home, staff deployment and people self-isolating when required.

Arrangements for visiting were by appointment only and overseen by trained staff. Visitors had their temperature and oxygen levels checked and a rapid Covid-19 test, which indicated a positive or negative test result within 30 minutes. Visitors used an external door directly into a designated visiting area avoiding access into the main areas of the home. Individual risk assessments had been completed to enable safe visiting when people were at end of life and included safe walking routes to the person's room, additional PPE needed, and staff support arrangements.

Premises and equipment appeared clean and the correct cleaning products were being utilised. Weekly infection, prevention and control audits were carried out and effective in identifying actions where needed. PPE was used correctly, in good supply and available throughout the home.

Staff were up to date with infection, prevention and control training which had included safely putting on and taking off PPE. Competencies were regularly checked.

People and staff were participating in regular testing and the Covid-19 vaccination programme in line with government guidance. Legal requirements for obtaining consent for testing and vaccinating had been met. The provider had also arranged for a GP to hold individual reassurance meetings with staff enabling them to discuss any vaccination concerns or medical issues privately.

People's wellbeing needs were understood, and staff assisted people to use technology to help keep in touch with family and friends. This had included a video link onto a large projector screen over Christmas so that families could join in with a carol service. Activities were held every day both in the communal areas and people's own rooms.

Further information is in the detailed findings below.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found