Nightingale Court Care Home

Nightingale Court Care Home is a residential care home for up to 35 individuals living with dementia and physical frailty. This report summarises the findings from a recent inspection by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The inspection focused on assessing the overall quality of care and identifying areas for improvement to ensure resident safety and well-being.

Regarding safety, while safeguarding systems were robust and staff numbers adequate, risks associated with residents' health conditions were not always consistently assessed, monitored, or managed. Specific concerns were noted regarding medication record-keeping and the need for better guidance on the use of certain creams and moving and handling equipment, though the manager is taking steps to address these.

In terms of how effective the care is, the home provides a comfortable environment and supports residents' nutritional needs well. However, improvements are needed to make the living spaces more dementia-friendly, with recommendations for better signage and personalised room identification. Staff training is generally good, with a commitment to continuous development.

The caring aspect of the service was highlighted positively, with residents and their families consistently reporting that staff are kind, caring, and treat everyone with dignity and respect. Observations confirmed positive interactions that enhance residents' well-being, and care at the end of life is compassionate.

The service was responsive in supporting residents' choices and controlling their lives in the least restrictive way. Care records are being enhanced to ensure personalised care, and residents receive compassionate end-of-life support. However, recommendations were made to ensure residents who spend much time in their rooms receive more meaningful activities to meet their social and emotional needs.

On the well-led domain, the provider's quality assurance systems were found to be not fully effective in identifying all concerns and driving improvement. While the manager acts promptly and effectively when issues are raised, embedding sustained improvements requires attention. The home has a positive person-centred culture, and staff feel valued.