'A sense of wellbeing' - HIQA finds strong standards of care at Tipperary nursing home
An unannounced HIQA inspection was carried out at Sacré Coeur Nursing Home located in Tipperary Town in April of this year.
Sacré Coeur Nursing Home, which accommodates up to 26 residents, was fully occupied on the day of inspection. It provides long term residential care, respite, convalescence, dementia and palliative care for adults with a range of dependency needs.
Residents at the nursing home spoke highly of the care they receive, praising staff, food and the welcoming atmosphere during a recent HIQA inspection.
Inspectors found there was "a sense of wellbeing" throughout the small, homely centre, with residents describing the home as a safe and comfortable place to live. Five residents who spoke with inspectors said they were happy with how the centre was run and were complimentary of both the staff and the quality of meals provided.
During the visit, inspectors observed staff assisting residents while also taking time to chat with them, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Many residents were gathered in the main sitting room, which serves as the social hub of the home, while others chose to spend time in their bedrooms.
Activities remained an important part of daily life, with the afternoon bingo session proving particularly popular. One resident joked that the games "get very competitive".
An activities planner was displayed prominently, ensuring residents were aware of upcoming events.
The centre itself was found to be clean, bright and well maintained. Bedrooms were personalised with photographs, artwork and personal belongings, while handrails throughout the corridors supported residents mobility. Those living upstairs could access the first floor using either the stairs or a chair lift.
Inspectors also noted significant progress on a new extension, which will provide three additional ensuite bedrooms and extra storage space. While construction has temporarily reduced access to the rear garden, alternative outdoor areas remain available at the front of the building, including a relocated smoking shelter.
Residents told inspectors they were looking forward to the completion of the project and were already planning a celebration to mark its opening.
Residents were found to have regular opportunities to influence how the home operates through satisfaction surveys and residents meetings, with action plans developed in response to feedback. Those who spoke with inspectors said any concerns they raised were dealt with promptly before becoming formal complaints.
Visitors also expressed confidence in the service, saying they were kept informed about their loved ones care and felt comfortable approaching staff if any issues arose.
The inspection found the centre to be compliant across almost all areas assessed. The only issue identified related to infection prevention and control, where the sluice room required improvements. Inspectors noted outdated storage racking for sanitary equipment, damaged floor tiles and the inappropriate storage of some cleaning items, meaning the regulation was assessed as substantially compliant.
The provider confirmed that a new, modern sluice room is included in the extension currently under construction. In the meantime, staff have received additional training, unnecessary items have been removed from the room and damaged tiles are due to be replaced.