The Oast

This report details an inspection of The Oast care home, focusing on infection prevention and control measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. The inspection assessed how well the home protects its residents and staff from infection, the effectiveness of its care practices, and the overall management of the service. It highlights the home's efforts to maintain safety and compliance with current guidelines, while also identifying areas where improvements are planned. The findings aim to provide families with an understanding of the home's operational standards and commitment to resident well-being.

On the matter of safety, The Oast has implemented robust measures to prevent the spread of infection. This includes asking visitors about their negative Lateral Flow Test results, taking temperatures, and ensuring hand sanitisation and mask-wearing. The home has designated safe areas for visits, both indoors and outdoors, and has plans in place to isolate residents if necessary. Staff are trained in COVID-19 safety protocols and regularly tested, with good supplies of personal protective equipment readily available. The premises are kept clean and clutter-free with enhanced cleaning practices. A specific point of improvement noted was the absence of pedal-controlled waste bins in four key areas, which the manager has committed to rectifying immediately to further enhance infection control.

Regarding how effective the care is, the inspection confirms that The Oast actively prevents visitors from spreading infections and adheres to shielding and social distancing rules. The service is admitting new residents safely, and personal protective equipment is being used effectively. Testing for residents and staff is accessible, and the home's layout and hygiene practices promote safety. Measures are in place to prevent or manage potential infection outbreaks, and the home's infection prevention and control policy is current.

In terms of caring, the report indicates that the home is taking steps to ensure residents are protected from infection. The focus on safe visiting practices and the availability of PPE demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of those living at The Oast.

Concerning how responsive the service is, The Oast has adapted its visiting policies to align with the latest government guidance, demonstrating a willingness to implement changes that support resident engagement while maintaining safety. Plans to isolate residents if needed show a proactive approach to managing health risks.

In terms of being well-led, the registered manager and provider have put measures in place to manage potential staffing pressures related to COVID-19. They are meeting current government requirements regarding staff vaccination and have been signposted to the latest guidelines to further develop their approach to infection control.