Hairmyres Hospital
Older people in acute hospitals announced inspection
Inspection dates: 5 - 7 March 2012
We carried out an announced inspection to Hairmyres Hospital
from Monday 5 to Wednesday 7 March 2012. We inspected 8 areas
of the hospital.
Before the inspection, we reviewed NHS Lanarkshire’s
self-assessment and obtained information about Hairmyres Hospital
from other sources. This included Scotland’s Patient Experience
Programme and other additional data that specifically relates to
the care of older people. Based on our review of this information,
we decided to focus the inspection on cognitive impairment. During
the inspection, we identified areas of concern with the prevention
and management of pressure ulcers. This led us to look at both
cognitive impairment and the prevention and management of pressure
ulcers.
On the inspection, we spoke with staff and used additional tools
to gather more information. We also carried out patient
interviews and used patient and carer questionnaires.
Areas of Strength
We noted areas where NHS Lanarkshire was performing well in
relation to the care provided to older people in acute hospitals.
The majority of interactions observed between staff and patients
were positive and demonstrated that patients were being treated
with dignity and respect.
Areas for improvement
However, we did find that further improvement is required in the
following areas. Patients with cognitive impairment are not
consistently receiving an appropriate cognitive assessment with an
appropriate personalised care plan put in place. In addition NHS
Lanarkshire should ensure that patients with dementia, who are
medically fit for discharge, are monitored for the amount of wards
that they are moved to. Pressure area assessment and ulcer care
within Hairmyres Hospital needs to be improved. NHS Lanarkshire
should ensure that all patients are assessed appropriately and a
personalised care plan put in place which is adhered to by staff.
These care plans should be continually evaluated. In addition,
pressure relieving equipment should be available to staff when they
require it.
This inspection resulted in eight areas for improvement. A full
list of the areas for improvement can be found in Appendix 1 of the
Inspection Report.
The improvement action plan for this inspection has now been
removed from the HEI website, as the inspection took place more
than 16 weeks ago. Please contact NHS Lanarkshire for further
information on progress against this action plan.
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Published Date: 16 April 2012
