BY STEPH BRAWN

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A GREENOCK care home has been ordered to make urgent improvements to its staffing levels and management of residents’ nutrition following a surprise inspection.

Kincaid House was graded as 'weak' for its care and support during the Covid-19 pandemic in a report which has been published by the Care Inspectorate.

The watchdog found the staffing levels at the Oakfield Terrace establishment were 'not sufficient' to meet people’s needs and said changes needed to be made to ensure residents had good nutrition and were properly hydrated.

Inspectors criticised the management of people’s weight and minimising falls, while highlighting that correct hand hygiene and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) was not always evident.

The home looks after 90 older people and has a dedicated unit for those living with dementia.

It is run by independent provider Meallmore, which manages 23 establishments across Scotland.

Inspectors have said they will be undertaking a further visit to ensure action is being taken.

Their report stated: “Staff received training about infection prevention control however, guidance about the use of PPE and correct hand hygiene was not always followed.

“Staffing arrangements were not sufficient to meet the needs of the people receiving care in the service.

"There was a need to review the staffing levels and the skill mix to ensure that they were responsive to the changing needs of people living in the home.

“The management of nutrition and hydration needs for individuals needs to improve to best support people’s health and wellbeing.

"We found the management of risk needs to improve.

"This included managing individuals’ weight, skin integrity and minimising falls."

The report went on: “Aspects of staff practice did not always promote the principles of choice, dignity, and respect for people living in the home.

"There was a need to improve the range of and access to meaningful activities.”

The results of the inspection are contained in a larger report submitted to the Scottish Parliament.

The Care Inspectorate is required to lay a report before ministers of all check-ups it has carried out over the previous fortnight, placing a particular focus on infection prevention and control, PPE and staffing.

Bosses at Kincaid House were praised for their efforts in keeping residents connected with loved ones during the coronavirus pandemic and the report highlighted the high levels of cleanliness within the home.

The report added: “People were supported to maintain contact with family and relatives using technology.

"Outdoor visiting was well supported in line with the current guidance.

"Staff were promoting social distancing with people they support.

“The home was clean, tidy, and well maintained.

"Appropriate cleaning schedules were in place.

“PPE supplies were good however, there was a need for improvements in storage, access, and disposal of PPE.”

A spokesman for Kincaid House said: “The safety and wellbeing of our residents is always our highest priority.

"We acknowledge the findings of the Care Inspectorate and we are confident that we are fully addressing all areas to ensure we provide high standards of personalised, quality care.”