An independent inspection of the Swords Nursing Home in north Co Dublin, formerly Leas Cross, has found there were significant concerns for the safety and care of residents.

The inspection of the home was conducted on 30 July by the Health Information and Quality Authority social services inspectorate.

There are 60 residents in Swords Nursing Home.

AdvertisementIn the inspection report, there were concerns about the safety of three residents in particular.

The home was required to review the care plans for these residents and submit them to HIQA within 24 hours of the inspection.

The report has called for improvements to ensure the privacy and dignity of residents, after finding that notes containing personal information were posted on the doors and walls of residents' rooms.

Food tasted by inspectors was found to be cold.

Concerns were raised about the management of residents with behaviour that is challenging, the quality of care plans, the quality and choice of meals, the recruitment and retention of staff and medication management practices.

Inspectors saw one resident whose wound dressing was falling off and who also had blood stains on his shirt. Another lady had a heavy discharge from her nose.

Both residents remained in that state, unattended, for a number of hours.

Inspectors were unhappy with the consent system from relatives which could result in the routine use of restraints.

Overall, the report said there was a need for significant improvement in the management of the home.

Many residents said they were happy in the home and that staff members were very kind.

In response to the criticisms, the home said it has endeavoured to provide high quality, resident focused nursing care, delivered by highly skilled professionals in a modern nursing facility maintained to a high standard.