Larchfield

We found the following examples of good practice.

A programme of COVID testing for both people living in the home and staff was undertaken in line with current government guidance. Appropriate procedures were in place should anyone display any symptoms or test positive. All visitors, including healthcare professionals, were subject to a range of screening procedures. This included showing evidence of vaccination and a negative lateral flow test before entry into the home was allowed.

The home had comprehensive policies and procedures to manage any risks associated with the COVID pandemic, including the management of people with a COVID positive diagnosis. At the time of our visit, none of the residents were currently COVID positive.

There were sufficient supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE) available for people. Hand sanitiser was readily available throughout the home. Staff had been trained in infection prevention and control (IPC) and the use of PPE. We observed staff wearing PPE appropriately.

Daily cleaning schedules were in place. All cleaning was undertaken by designated domestic staff, which included touch point cleaning. At the time of our visit we observed that there were a couple of areas which could have impacted on infection prevention and control, such as unused board games, crayons and paper not stored away in cupboards. This issue was rectified immediately during our visit.

Staff supported the social and emotional wellbeing of residents, which included residents participating in activities outside of the care home. Appropriate procedures were followed to support COVID testing and minimise risk.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found