Boscobel

We found the following examples of good practice.

A 'booking in' procedure was in place for visitors to the home including, evidence of a negative lateral flow test, COVID-19 vaccination, temperature taken and a health questionnaire. This helped prevent visitors spreading infection on entering the premises.

The home facilitated face to face visits, in line with government guidance. Any changes to government guidance was implemented immediately. Visitors were kept up to date with any changes through telephone, email and written communication.

The home had a designated area which was used for visiting, to help minimise traffic within the home. Garden visits were also conducted when the weather permitted. Alternatives to in-person visitation, such as virtual visits, were supported, as and when necessary.

People and staff were tested regularly for COVID-19. Staff employed at the home had been vaccinated, to help keep people safe from the risk of infection. Some staff had received their COVID-19 booster vaccinations.

Individualised and detailed risk assessments for both people and staff were used to help minimise risk of infection transmission.

The home was clean, hygienic and well maintained, having recently undergone refurbishment. Both domestic and care staff helped implement good infection control practices.

Infection control policies and procedures helped ensure that the home adopted best practice which complied with current guidance. Cleaning schedules and audits were in place to help maintain cleanliness and minimise the spread of infection.

Staff were trained in how to put on and take off PPE. Posters located near PPE stations acted as a visual reminder to staff on good practices.

The home had adequate supplies of appropriate PPE. Staff changed into their uniforms and put on PPE before each shift, to help minimise any risk of contamination.

The manager maintained links with external health professionals to enable people to receive the care and

intervention they needed.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found