Infection control at south Longford nursing home questioned

Health Information and Quality (Hiqa) officials uncovered several shortcomings at Ballymahon’s Thomond Lodge Nursing Home in the wake of an inspection carried out on October 5, 2022.

It found effective governance in the sustainable delivery of safe and effective infection prevention and control was not up to the required national standards.

Cleaning chemicals and equipment was stored within the sluice room and laundry, it discovered which inspectors adjudged posed a risk of cross contamination.

Sinks within residents rooms were found to be dual purpose and used by both residents and staff which likewise increased the likelihood of cross contamination.

It also discovered that equipment was not managed in a way that minimised the risk of transmitting a healthcare-associated infection with the covers of several foam mattresses appearing worn and could therefore not be effectively cleaned.

In a further insight, it found that the underside of several shower chairs and commodes were unclean, indicating that they had not been effectively decontaminated after use.

In a fourteen point compliance plan response, management indicated a number of those concerns highlighted had already been addressed while a number of other issues were in the process of being rectified.

“Surveillance and auditing of infections and colonisation has now been added to our quarterly audit schedule,” management said in response.

“Mattress audits have been added to our audit schedule twice yearly and all worn mattresses have now been replaced.

“Shower chairs and commodes have been added to the cleaning schedule for recording and will form part of the environmental audit going forward.”

On a more positive footing, the inspector was assured that residents living in the centre enjoyed a good quality of life.

It was also evident that management and staff knew the residents well and were familiar with each of their' daily routines and preferences.