Clean bill of health for hospital at last (From Swindon Advertiser)

Clean bill of health for hospital at last

9:30pm Wednesday 1st August 2012 in News By Katie Bond

AFTER finding failings at the Great Western Hospital during a visit last year, the Care Quality Commission has now given it the all clear.

In a report published yesterday, the CQC said the GWH had made improvements in areas previously causing them concern.

The most recent review was carried out to check whether the GWH had taken action in relation to care and welfare of people who use services, and meeting nutritional needs.

In the report, an inspector states: “We asked patients about their overall care at the hospital. One patient said ‘care here is fabulous’ and another said ‘nothing is too much trouble.’ “The staff we met on our visits to the wards showed dedication, professionalism and a caring attitude to patients. “We found evidence to judge the hospital had made significant improvements to providing and monitoring fluids. “Patients were being protected from the risk of inadequate hydration.

“We went on to visit the operating theatres’ department where, in December 2011, we were concerned about the safety of theatre procedures and team communication.

“We focused at this visit upon use of the surgical safety checklists and associated protocols and procedures. “Staff told us the use of checklists, surgery briefings and debriefing sessions had been re-launched within theatre. “Staff said communication had significantly improved within teams. “All members of the team felt valued and supported to deliver safe and quality care.

“The action plan provided to address concerns in theatre practices following our inspection in December 2011 was extensive and detailed. “All concerns were addressed in detail and actions allocated to a responsible member of staff.

“The staff we met and interviewed in theatre demonstrated professionalism, knowledge and dedication to their respective roles. “Patients were adequately protected from the risks of unsafe treatment during surgical procedures.”

Hilary Walker, the interim chief nurse at GWH, said she was delighted with the report and that improvements had been recognised.

“We’ve worked hard to address the points raised in the CQC’s previous report published in January this year which highlighted key areas for improvement, and have invested a lot of time and effort to change for the better,” she said.