The Sandford Nursing Home

We identified 1 breach of the legal regulations. Environmental risks had not always been fully considered. However, the provider took immediate action to mitigate risks to people. Systems to learn from accidents and incidents were not effective in identifying trends or prevent them from happening again. Risk assessments were in place to manage risks and reduce people's risk of harm however these had not always been reviewed regularly. Staff were trained in safeguarding people from abuse. Care plans provided staff with an overview of people's care needs however, these had not always been regularly reviewed. People received their medicines when they needed them. Enough trained staff were deployed to meet people’s needs, and staff received regular supervisions and training. People were protected from risks associated with the control and spread of infection.

We identified 1 breach of the legal regulations. Staff did not always work in accordance with the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) 2005 to ensure people’s rights were respected. People felt listened to however they were not always involved in planning or reviewing the care they received. Care plans were not always fully reflective of people’s needs and had not been regularly reviewed. People were supported to access healthcare services in accordance with their needs. People received food and drink which met their needs and preferences.

People were supported by kind and caring staff who knew what was important to them. People were treated with dignity and respect by staff. Staff supported people to maintain their independence and people were provided with opportunities for social stimulation. People could see their visitors when they wanted.

We have recommended that formal systems are put in place to ensure people and, where appropriate their relatives are fully involved in decisions about their wishes during their final days, for lifesaving treatment and following death. Staff worked with health and social care professionals to achieve good outcomes for people, however some professionals felt communications needed to improve. People’s communication needs were assessed and considered. People knew how to raise concerns and told us they would feel confident in doing so.

We identified 1 breach of the legal regulations. Systems to monitor and improve the quality and safety of the service people received were not always effective in identifying shortfalls or driving improvement. We received mixed views from professionals who worked with the service about how the service worked with them. Staff felt supported in their role and were confident in speaking up. People’s views were encouraged and responded to.