Hillside Nursing Home

The provider implemented visiting arrangements that were safe and helped to control and prevent the spread of infections. Visitor protocols included a lateral flow test (LFT) for COVID-19 prior to entering the home. Visitors were given access to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), such as face masks to make sure the risk of catching and spreading infections was minimised. Hand sanitiser was available for use at the entrance. Visitors had their temperature taken to check they were not symptomatic of COVID-19.

Visiting professionals were asked to provide evidence of their COVID-19 vaccinations prior to entering the home. All care home staff took regular LFT test as a precaution to check if they had the virus. The home followed national guidance when staff tested positive.

The service had enough staff to meet people's needs. Agency staff were recruited to cover when needed and the provider was able to maintain their assessed staffing levels. At the time of our inspection, we observed there was sufficient staff to support people.

Staff and people took part in a COVID-19 testing programme according to government guidance. All staff had completed relevant training in infection control and PPE. We saw staff using PPE correctly and safely. Handwashing guidance was displayed throughout the home and additional PPE was available for staff and visitors. Infection control audits were carried out of all areas within the home. There was a daily cleaning schedule in place to ensure the premises was kept clean and to maintain hygiene, which helped prevent the spread of infections.

The provider kept up to date with government and local guidance on self-isolation, visiting and outbreaks to ensure they were following it correctly.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found