Boo Baby Scan Bishop's Stortford

This was our first inspection for Boo Baby Scan Bishop’s Stortford. We rated it as requires improvement because:

• The service was not using a log to document the cleaning of transvaginal ultrasound probes. This was not in line with national guidance.
• Cleaning records did not clearly demonstrate that all areas were cleaned regularly. The format of cleaning records did not allow staff to record the dates that daily cleaning had taken place or to detail the areas that had been cleaned.
• Staff had not gone through a process of identifying the hazardous substances being used by the service, of evaluating the potential risks to health of each substance, and of identifying and implementing appropriate control measures for each substance. This was not in line with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations.
• Staff did not always document regular safety checks of specialist equipment. The ultrasound machine was overdue for servicing. There was no maintenance plan for electrical equipment. Staff did not carry out regular checks of first aid equipment to ensure that the contents were complete and within their expiry date.
• Staff did not always keep up-to-date with their mandatory training.
• Staff did not complete any training on recognising and responding to patients with learning disabilities or autism. This became a requirement in July 2022.
• There were inconsistencies in incident reporting and investigation processes and policies.
• The registered manager was not always able to demonstrate that they had appropriate knowledge of applicable legislation and regulations.
• There were inconsistencies in the effectiveness of governance, information management and the management of risk, issues and performance.
• Data or notifications were not consistently submitted to external organisations as required.

However:

• The service had enough staff to care for patients and keep them safe. Staff assessed risks to patients, acted on them and kept good care records.
• Staff worked well together for the benefit of patients, advised them on how to lead healthier lives, and supported them to make decisions about their care.
• There was a strong, visible, person-centred culture. Staff were highly motivated and inspired to offer care that was kind and promoted people’s dignity. Relationships between people who used the service, those close to them and staff were strong, caring, respectful and supportive. These relationships were highly valued by staff and promoted by leaders.
• The service planned care to meet the needs of local people and made it easy for people to give feedback. People could access the service when they needed it.
• Staff felt respected, supported and valued. They were focused on the needs of patients receiving care. The service engaged with patients and all staff were committed to improving services continually.