Park View Gloucester

Park View Gloucester was managing a COVID-19 outbreak which had impacted on the service since January 2021.

We found the following examples of good practice. ● Visits to the home were currently suspended. However, where people were at the end of life, or where otherwise essential, visiting had been supported in agreement with the person's GP. One relative had been supported to join the home's COVID-19 testing processes to enable them to visit their relative at the end of life. Alternative ways, including the use of technology, had supported people's ability to remain in contact with their relatives.

● The home where appropriate, supported people to self-isolate in accordance with best practice guidance. People were being supported in their rooms. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) stations were in place outside people's rooms, where required.

● At the time of our inspection, staff were wearing PPE appropriately. The registered manager was reviewing the use of PPE and ensuring the service followed the appropriate guidance.

● Admission to the home was completed in line with COVID-19 guidance. People were only admitted following a negative COVID-19 test result and supported to self-isolate for up to 14 days following admission to reduce the risk of introducing infection.

● People's health and wellbeing was monitored. People were observed for symptoms of COVID-19 and other potential infections. The majority of people and staff had been vaccinated and the registered manager was ensuring every person had access to the COVID-19 vaccine.

●Action had been taken to reduce the risk of infection spreading which had included the isolation of people affected by COVID-19, shielding of people who were vulnerable and the cohorting of staff to reduce the spread of infection.

● People and staff were tested in line with national guidance for care homes. The registered manager and staff understood the actions required if a member of staff or resident tested positive or exhibited symptoms associated with COVID-19.

● As part of full infection control measures laundry and waste arrangements had been correctly implemented to reduce the spread of infection.

● Cleaning schedules had been enhanced and were followed by housekeeping staff and care staff. Staff and the management were reviewing cleaning processes. The registered manager had developed tailored audits in relation to COVID-19.

● The provider's policy for managing COVID-19 and related infection prevention and control procedures had been reviewed. COVID-19 guidance was also kept up to date for staff reference.

● Staff had received training and support in relation to infection control and COVID-19. During the time the home was closed, staff were supported to complete further training in relation to COVID-19.

● The registered manager was aware of promoting the wellbeing of staff and residents. Staff felt they were supported at all times. Staff felt supported to ensure people's health needs were maintained. The service had ensured people were supported with their wellbeing needs and provided activities and one to one engagement whilst promoting social distancing where possible.

● The registered manager was proactive in their desire to learn and develop the service through the pandemic. This included working with healthcare professionals on identifying how COVID-19 impacted people.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found