3554. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Health the national guidelines or requirements in respect of nursing homes regarding notifying a resident’s next of kin following an unwitnessed fall, particularly when the resident is elderly and extremely vulnerable; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [61724/26]

Under the regulatory framework for designated centres for older people, nursing homes are required to have arrangements in place to investigate, document and review accidents and incidents, including falls. The chief Inspector of Social Services in the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA), as the independent regulator of designated centres for older people, monitors compliance with the relevant regulations and standards through its inspection and regulatory functions.

The National Standards for Residential Care Settings for Older People emphasise person-centred care and open communication with families. Providers must have appropriate procedures in place for managing incidents and communicating with residents and, where appropriate, their nominated representatives.

Following an unwitnessed fall, good practice includes documenting the circumstances of the incident, including where the resident was found, their position at the scene where relevant, the time of discovery, and any obvious signs of injury. A comprehensive assessment should also be undertaken and recorded, including observations of the resident's condition, neurological observations where indicated, signs of pain, bruising, skin injuries, mobility changes and any other concerns identified during examination. Where appropriate, the resident's care plan and risk assessments should also be reviewed and updated to reflect any changes arising from the incident.

HIQA has also published guidance for providers on managing notifiable events in designated centres, which supports providers in meeting their regulatory obligations in relation to the recording and management of significant incidents.