A HIQA inspection of a Mullingar Nursing Home carried out in early July of this year found good satisfaction among residents despite the restrictions as a result of the Covid pandemic.
The inspection was carried out at Newbrook Nursing Home on the outskirts of Mullingar town on the 7th and 8th of July this year.
The nursing home is registered to accommodate 119 residents and there were 105 people being cared for these on the days of the unannounced inspection.
Inspectors spoke with 8 residents who described their experience of the pandemic.
They said they'd been well informed about the virus, the visiting restrictions that had been put in place, and the safety measures taken to protect them.
There had been a significant outbreak of Covid in the nursing home during March, April and May, during which 48 residents and 25 staff tested positive.
12 residents passed away during this time and the outbreak was declared over by public health on the 4th of June.
The residents who talked to the inspectors said their care needs had been met to a high standard during the outbreak ,and were pleased that so many had recovered from Covid, but also spoke with sorrow about the residents who had passed away.
Residents said they found the periods of isolation in their bedrooms very difficult, and while some spoke of the loneliness created by the pandemic they said staff had visited their rooms frequently during the day and provided support and encouragement.
They also said that the new technology like tablets and applications like WhatsApp had been a bonus in helping them keep in touch with family.
The report by the HIQA inspectors on the Newbrook Nursing Home said residents were comfortable and content in their environment when they visited in May, the feedback on the food served was very positive and the staff team were valued for their good humour , patience and dedication.
The report also found the centre was appropriately resourced and effectively managed, and that staff were very well informed about the symptoms of Covid and the latest infection protocols.
