22 September 2021
During a routine inspection
Our rating of this location stayed the same. We rated it as requires improvement because:
The service did not always control infection risk well. The service did not conduct infection prevention control (IPC) audits such as hand hygiene audits. Sonographers did not always follow the service’s policy on personal protective equipment (PPE), for example they did not always wear aprons for scans.
There was no formal policy for the management of patients who suddenly became unwell. The provider relied on the host location’s emergency equipment.
Leaders did not operate effective governance processes. The risk assessment and recording process was not fit for purpose. The service’s policies did not include the author or source guidance
Leaders of the service did not exhibit an understanding of the Duty of Candour regulations.
However:
The service had enough staff to care for patients and keep them safe. Staff had training in key skills.
Staff provided good care to patients. Staff worked well together for the benefit of patients, supported them to make decisions about their care, and had access to good information. Key services were available with flexible times throughout the week.
Staff treated patients with compassion and kindness, respected their privacy and dignity, took account of their individual needs, and helped them understand their conditions. They provided emotional support to patients. Feedback from patients was overwhelmingly positive.
The service planned care to meet the needs of local people, took account of patients’ individual needs, and made it easy for people to give feedback. People could access the service when they needed it and did not have to wait too long for a diagnostic procedure.
Staff felt respected, supported and valued. They were focused on the needs of patients.
The service and its director were recognised within the sector for their involvement and pioneering work in developing key technical advances in ultrasound imaging.