Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspectors rated St Georges Lodge Residential Care Home in Worthing as “requires improvement” during a recent assessment conducted between October 9 October and 28 this year.
The home, which provides support to older people including those with various health conditions such as dementia, was found to be lacking in several areas.
Inspectors found three breaches of regulations, specifically concerning safe care and treatment, fit and proper persons employed, and good governance.
The report found “significant shortfalls” in the standard of care, with one staff member signing the Medication Administration Record (MAR) to confirm a person had taken their medicine, although they had not.
The report also said: “People’s risks were not always identified, assessed and managed safely,”
It found there were instances where staff’s moving and handling practices were deemed unsafe, increasing the risk of harm to residents.
Multiple people in wheelchairs did not have wheelchair breaks applied while eating, meaning they were not sufficiently stable.
In addition, the report highlighted weak recruitment systems which meant new staff may not always have the necessary experience and skills needed to provide safe care.
It added: “When people moved from the home to another service, information about their care and support needs was not always shared to ensure continuity of care.”
Despite these issues, the report said the home maintained a sufficient number of staff to meet residents’ needs and took steps to ensure a safe environment was provided.
Inspectors also said staff promoted the independence of residents and people had choice and control over their wellbeing.
Residents praised the kindness and care shown by staff.
One person said: “They care about you. They make a fuss about things you wouldn’t even think about.
“I had a sore ankle, and they got in some cream they didn’t have here. That’s caring for people.”
The report noted that the home had been without a registered manager for a year, but a new manager had been appointed and was in the process of registering with the commission.
In response to the findings, the provider has been asked to submit an action plan detailing how they intend to address the commission’s concerns.
St Georges Lodge has been approached for comment.