Iden Manor Nursing Home

This report from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) provides an overview of the inspection conducted at Iden Manor Nursing home. It assesses the quality of care provided across five key areas, offering insights for families considering this care setting for their loved ones. The inspection aimed to ensure the home is safe, effective, caring, responsive, and well-led, providing a comprehensive picture of the resident experience and operational standards.

Regarding safety, residents and their families reported feeling secure, with staff consistently available and attentive to needs. Safeguarding procedures were robust, with staff well-trained and knowledgeable in reporting concerns. Risk assessments were comprehensive, and environmental safety checks were consistently performed, although a recent fire evacuation exercise identified a need for further staff training in this area, which has since been addressed. Staffing levels were generally adequate, with recent recruitment efforts strengthening the team, and recruitment processes were thorough. Medicines were managed safely and administered correctly, with regular audits in place, and infection control measures were effective, ensuring a safe environment for all.

In terms of how effective the care is, residents' needs were assessed thoroughly before admission, ensuring suitability for the service. Care plans were detailed and regularly reviewed, with families actively involved in the process. Staff demonstrated a good understanding of individual preferences and needs, providing person-centred care aligned with best practices and legal guidance. Staff received appropriate training and support, with regular supervisions and competency checks, particularly in areas like medicine management. Dietary needs were well-catered for, with choices offered and documented preferences adhered to, and food presentation was considered. The home also facilitated access to healthcare professionals, ensuring timely and effective care.

For caring aspects, residents consistently described staff as kind, caring, and respectful, treating them with dignity. This was further evidenced by the personalised approach to care, respecting individual choices, culture, and spiritual needs. Staff were attuned to residents' preferences, including gender preferences for personal care. The environment was noted as clean, pleasant, and tranquil, with ample space and good access to attractive gardens, contributing to residents' well-being. The report highlights that residents felt supported and that their individual preferences were respected in their daily routines and personal care.

The service demonstrated responsiveness by ensuring that care plans were adapted to meet individual needs and choices. Residents and their families felt involved in care planning, with mechanisms in place to address specific concerns raised. The home facilitated opportunities for residents to engage with their preferences, such as involving them in creating dining room table centrepieces. The report also noted that the service had made changes based on resident feedback, such as increasing the availability of fruit. Visitors were welcomed without restriction, further indicating a responsive and open approach to family involvement.

In relation to how well-led the service is, the management team was described as supportive and approachable by residents, relatives, and staff. There were systems in place for continuous improvement, including regular audits and checks across all aspects of the service. Actions were taken to rectify any identified shortfalls, and feedback from residents and relatives was actively sought and acted upon. Communication regarding care changes and incidents was also highlighted as a positive aspect, ensuring families remained informed. The management team demonstrated commitment to learning from incidents and implementing improvements.