Inspectors have delivered a highly critical inspection report on an Angus nursing home, branding the quality of care and management of the facility as weak.
Concerns about the dignity and privacy of residents emerged from the inspection of Balhousie Care’s Antiquary House facility on the Westway in Arbroath, as well as a range of criticisms over issues including medical protocols after a large amount of controlled drugs were found which should have been returned to a pharmacy.
The quality of environment and staffing at the home was only graded as adequate following the June visit.
Balhousie Care, which operates more than 20 homes across the country — looking after some 900 residents and employing in excess of 1,200 staff — said a “robust action plan” had been put in place to address the inspectorate’s concerns.
The report said the care and support grading of “weak” had been given after inspectors looked at care records and observed interaction between staff and residents.
There were concerns about people being moved in their chairs without being told, residents not always being offered a choice of meal and a lack of choice and availability of hot and cold drinks.
“We observed that some staff demonstrated good skills and helped people in a way that was kind, caring and supportive,” said the report.
“However, we saw other examples where staff did not acknowledge peoples’ needs in an appropriate manner. This impacted on their privacy and in some instances their dignity.”
Other highlighted areas of weak practice included out of date dressings and blood bottles, an inconsistency in completion protocols for ’as required medication’ and no temperature checks on the home’s clinic or fridge.
A Balhousie Care spokesperson said: “We accept that there were aspects of care provided that was not at the standard we would expect within our homes, and we continue to work with the Care Inspectorate to address any issues.
“Since the inspection, we have provided additional management support within the home and implemented a robust action plan which delivers upon requirements and recommendations made to us, all of which will be fulfilled within the timelines stipulated.
“Balhousie take every effort to deliver good quality care to all residents entrusted to us, this will continue to be our priority.
“We strongly believe in providing safe environments for residents which focus on respect, dignity and comfort.”
