INDEPENDENT health watchdog inspectors have uncovered “unacceptable practices” at a nursing home run by the Health Service Executive in east Co Clare.
The unacceptable practices detected by inspectors from the Health Information and Quality Authority relate to the state of the building and the dispensing of medicines at Raheen Community Hospital near the village of Tuamgraney. The facility was originally a private house dating to the 1880s and was acquired by Clare County Council in 1926 and converted to a district hospital.
The Mid-Western Health Board took over the facility in 1973, and since then it has been used to provide services to the elderly in southeast Clare.
However, in their latest inspection of the 28-bed facility, inspectors recorded that significant improvements were required in a number of areas, meaning that “unacceptable practices” were found.
The inspectors, however, stated that overall they were satisfied that the residents were cared for in a safe environment and that their nursing and healthcare needs were being met.
On the physical building, the inspectors reported: “There was no dining room available to residents. Inspectors observed residents eating their meals from a bed table at their bedside or from a bed table in one of the day rooms.This arrangement did not allow the dining experience to be an enjoyable, social and interactive occasion.”
The report goes on: “Inspectors noted there was limited private space for residents and visitors. There was no separate room for residents to meet visitors in private.
“Residents confirmed that the limited space impacted on their choice, comfort and ability to have quiet private time either alone or with relatives.
“Inspectors noted that the size and layout of the multi-occupancy rooms would not comply with the requirements of the standards by 2015. The provider told inspectors that they did not as yet have a plan in place to address the deficits but they would be putting a phased plan in place with a view to complying with the requirements of the standards.”
The inspectors also found that the process for ordering medications was not in accordance with legislation and best practice.
In response to the criticism of the building, the executive said it was reviewing the development control plan for the hospital in partnership with the Friends of Raheen Hospital to comply with the standards.
It is to now order that medication be prescribed in accordance with legislation and best practice.
