Arden Court

We found the following examples of good practice:

At the entrance of the home, information was displayed to inform visitors about any infection control procedures to be followed. Temperature checks were taken and questionnaires completed, asking people about any possible symptoms of COVID-19, or if they had felt unwell. Lateral flow (a COVID-19 test where the results can be obtained quickly) testing was carried out as needed.

Various methods had been used to enable people to keep in touch with their family and friends during the pandemic. This included video calls and window visits.

A 'visiting pod' had been installed in one of the quiet lounge areas, enabling people living at the home to see members of their family in a safe environment, whilst also following government guidelines regarding COVID-19. Prior to family members entering the home, correct procedures were followed such as carrying out a lateral flow test, waiting for the results and wearing the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).

Zoning arrangements were used when people had tested positive for COVID-19 and needed to self-isolate in certain areas such as bedrooms within select corridors of the home. COVID-19 testing was in place for both staff and people using the service. People living at the home, where they had chosen too, had all received their first dosage of the COVID-19 vaccination.

Appropriate arrangements were in place for new admissions to the home, such as requesting confirmation of a negative COVID-19 test before each person moved into Arden Court.

Enough PPE was available and we saw staff wore it at all times during our visit. Hand sanitizers and donning/doffing (putting on and removing PPE) stations were distributed throughout the building to support correct infection control practices.

We observed the home to be clean and tidy, with domestic staff carrying out their duties throughout the day. Windows were opened at various times during the day to assist with ventilation and outdoor facilities were used when better weather allowed.

There were enough staff to care for people safely, although staff had not yet received additional infection control training from the local authority during the pandemic. We received an update following our visit that this had been arranged. Internal infection control training had been delivered internally however.

Risk assessments were completed where certain groups may be at higher risk of contracting the virus. An appropriate infection control procedure was in place and regular infection control audits were undertaken to ensure standards were maintained.

The five questions we ask about services and what we found