Residents praise care and warm atmosphere at Clonmel nursing home during HIQA inspection
Residents at Sonas Nursing Home Melview located in Clonmel praised staff during unannounced HIQA inspection.
Sonas Nursing Home Melview, located just outside of Clonmel, was praised by residents and inspectors during an unannounced HIQA inspection carried out in April of this year.
The three storey nursing home, which accommodates up to 93 residents, was inspected as part of HIQA’s monitoring of infection prevention and control practices.
During the inspection, residents and visitors spoke highly of the standard of care provided, with many complimenting staff, the quality of food, activities, cleanliness and attention to residents personal care.
Residents told inspectors they felt safe in the home and were comfortable raising any concerns with staff if needed.
Several residents said staff regularly went "above and beyond" to make birthdays and anniversaries special, organising thoughtful celebrations with balloons, cakes and other personal touches that helped create a strong sense of community.
One visitor also recalled a summer garden party at the home, where activities were organised for all generations, including a bouncy castle for children, creating what inspectors described as an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere.
Inspectors observed a calm and relaxed environment throughout the day, noting that staff knew residents well and were familiar with their individual routines and preferences.
Residents requests were responded to promptly, while those who preferred to remain in their bedrooms received the same level of support as those spending time in communal areas.
The dining experience also received positive feedback. Inspectors watched residents sharing a family style meal around a large dining table, describing the atmosphere as warm and sociable.
Residents who required assistance with eating were supported respectfully and without being rushed, while meals were described as appetising and served hot.
The inspection focused heavily on infection prevention and control, with HIQA finding clear management structures and systems in place to minimise the risk of infections.
The person in charge retained overall responsibility for infection prevention, supported by a dedicated infection control link practitioner and access to specialist advice where required.
Inspectors also found the home carried out regular audits covering areas such as hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment, environmental cleanliness, laundry and waste management.
Results were monitored over time and supplemented by peer reviews from management teams in other Sonas nursing homes.
HIQA noted that staff had completed mandatory infection prevention training and found evidence that the home's procedures were being consistently followed in practice.
The report also found that a single infectious disease outbreak recorded at the centre during 2026 had been identified, managed and contained quickly, limiting its spread.
Only one regulation was found to be substantially compliant, meaning that the provider has generally met the requirements of the regulation but some action is required to be fully compliant. This finding will have a risk rating of yellow which is low risk.
Overall, inspectors concluded they were assured that residents at Sonas Nursing Home Melview were enjoying a good quality of life in a safe, well managed and caring environment.