CQC report reveals successful and unsuccessful IPC practices in care homes

In some homes, IPC policies are outdated and PPE is not being used effectively, a CQC report on infection prevention and control (IPC) has revealed. However, out of the 300 care homes surveyed, most practised IPC for visitors successfully.

Some examples of general good practice:

An Eid dinner was organised via video conference for a person who had always shared this with their family. Staff decorated the room and played the video link through a large television.
Face coverings were provided which suited people’s personality and interests to encourage their use. For example, one resident who is keen on public transport was given a mask with buses on it.

Safe admission:

Tests were carried out to identify new resident’s COVID-19 status – some homes only accepted hospital patients with a negative test whilst others had procedures in place while they awaited test results.
A PPE station was placed outside new residents’ room and their clothes were labelled and left for 72 hours.

IPC for visitors:

For one person with a learning disability, there were special arrangements for a relative to visit, which greatly relieved his anxiety.
Visitors were required to complete a questionnaire or declaration and temperature checks.
PPE was provided when visitors did not bring their own.
Handwashing facilities and hand sanitiser were available and their use was prompted by staff.
Good signage was seen at entrance and reminders throughout home.
Garden visits took place to avoid visitors entering the home.
Some homes allowed visits at open windows in the home or open car windows, by appointment.
Residents were encouraged and supported to contact relatives and friends via video.

IPC policy:

Some IPC policies were out of date or had not been amended during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Some homes had limited, or a lack of, contingency planning, such as not including preparations for autumn and winter.
Some homes lacked risk assessment from Black and minority ethnic groups.

Effective use of PPE:

PPE was not worn correctly in some homes during break times, whilst handling or serving food, and when near people they provided care for.
In one service, staff were not changing masks due to limited supplies.
PPE should be stored in a clean, dry environment to prevent contamination however, some homes lacked specific areas for donning and doffing PPE.
PPE was not always disposed of correctly as healthcare waste. Homes should seal and bag PPE separately to general waste.

Read the full report.