A HIQA inspection has praised the kind and respectful nature of staff at a Cavan nursing home.
However, inspectors also noted that major improvements were required with regards to fire safety at College View Nursing Home. College View Nursing home is a purpose built nursing home located in landscaped gardens on an elevated site within the Cavan town opposite St Patrick’s College on the Clones Road. The centre is registered to accommodate a maximum of 69 residents, both males and females, over the age of 18 years on a long term and short stay, respite and convalescence basis. Staff were observed to be very kind and respectful to residents who were mobilising around the centre The inspectors said the weekly menu was varied and staff were attentive and aware of residents choices and needs. Residents who had communication difficulties and special communication requirements had these recorded in their care plans and were observed to be supported in communicating freely. However they also highlighted a number of issues with regards to fire safety at the centre. Issues noted included the absence of smoke seals on fire doors, excessive gaps in fire doors, and inappropriate storage of potentially flammable equipment next to electrical panels or generators A lack of emergency directional signage and external emergency lighting was also noted, as well as one emergency door being difficult to open due to a build up of vegetation. The centre was found to be compliant or substantially compliant in 12 areas of inspection, with non-compliances in 2 areas. In it's response to the report, the centre pointed out that new emergency lighting and signage was installed over the summer and all flammable materials have been removed from highlighted areas.
Meanwhile, repairs and upgrades to fire doors are due to be completed in January, whilst the vegetation around one external door has now been cleared.