Bosses at a Fife care home have been told to take immediate action after an unannounced inspection found serious concerns over the cleanliness of the environment and laundry systems.
The Care Inspectorate issued a “serious letter of concern” in relation to Lomond View Care Home in Falkland following problems identified during its visit on September 8.
Inspectors found laundry and cleaning cupboards were left open, giving residents access to poisonous liquids and running the risk of someone being locked inside.
Concerns were also raised about people’s basic needs not always being met, medicines not being well managed and staff not having time to support activities.
PPE was not always available and the storage of hazardous substances and waste disposal systems were described as “unsatisfactory”.
The organisation has described the home’s care and support during the Covid-19 pandemic as weak, with the same rating applied to people’s health and wellbeing, infection prevention and control practices, and staffing arrangements.
In their report, inspectors noted: “People had access to food and fluids and recording charts were appropriately completed and up-to-date.
“Unfortunately, we saw one person sleeping in their bedroom who had not been supported to have their afternoon drink and snack which were lying on the bedside table.
“We brought this to the attention of the area manager who addressed it.”
The inspectors said the home had a garden with home grown fruit, vegetables and herbs but this was being neglected.
“Peoples’ wellbeing could have been enhanced by tending to them, picking them and including them in their menus,” they said.
“But we saw the produce had not been used and was rotting in the garden. These were further example of poor outcomes for people resulting from the lack of staff presence.
“The home environment was unsatisfactory, levels of cleanliness were poor and required immediate attention to help minimise the potential spread of infection.
“The management of waste and laundry were not satisfactory which caused risks to staff, people living in the home and visitors.
“A letter of serious concern was issued to the service on the day of inspection.”
The home’s provider, Barrogil Limited (Kingdom Homes) said it had taken action to address the requirements highlighted by inspectors and a follow-up visit has been scheduled.
