The nursing home sector requires a champion to lead a culture change in hygiene and infection control, for instance, the laxity around the wearing of duty uniforms outside of the nursing home setting (coming on duty and going off duty) needs to be addressed. We want to see better staff patient ratios, particularly at night as well as improvements in general standards of hygiene and infection control.

We are anxious for a review of the current model for training staff. What ongoing professional development opportunities are available for nurses, working in nursing homes? How often are their skills refreshed? What are the minimum qualification requirements demanded of care assistants? Why were the regulations changed in 2013 to dilute the requirement that there be a registered nurse on duty at all times in all residential settings?

Categories: Priorities