Written answer
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes must keep accurate fall records and communicate consistently with families, ambulance staff and healthcare professionals, with HIQA monitoring compliance.
3546. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Health the standards that are required to ensure consistency of information to both parties when there is discrepancies between what a nursing home tells a family about a fall by a resident, and what the staff subsequently tell ambulance personnel; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61716/26]
Comment on this
Under the regulatory framework for designated centres for older people, nursing homes are required to maintain accurate, complete and up-to-date records relating to residents' care, treatment and significant incidents, including falls. These records support continuity of care and help to ensure that relevant information can be communicated consistently to residents, families, emergency services and healthcare professionals.
HIQA's National Standards for Residential Care Settings for Older People emphasise effective governance, record management, incident reporting and clear communication. Providers are required to have systems in place to document incidents appropriately, maintain accurate records and ensure that relevant information relating to a resident's care is communicated to those involved in that resident's treatment and support.
Where a resident is transferred to hospital or requires emergency medical assistance, relevant clinical and care information should be shared with ambulance personnel and healthcare professionals to support safe and effective care. Information provided to families should be informed by the wishes of a resident, the records maintained by the provider and the findings of any assessment carried out following the incident.
Where concerns arise regarding the accuracy or consistency of information provided following an incident, providers are expected to review the circumstances, ensure that records are accurate and complete, and take any necessary steps to improve communication and incident management processes.
Through its inspection and regulatory functions, the Chief Inspector of Social Services in HIQA monitors compliance with the relevant regulations and standards. Nursing homes are expected to promote a culture of transparency, accountability and clear communication in the best interests of residents and their families.