Hiqa: Privacy and dignity of patients compromised

An inspection of Kanturk Community Hospital by the health watchdog found while the standard of care was good, the layout of the premises compromised the privacy and dignity of residents.

The problem with layout related largely to the bedrooms, some of which were shared by multiple residents, where beds were in close proximity. Inspectors from the Health Information and Quality Authority (Hiqa) said some bedrooms were used “as thoroughfares to access other bedrooms” posing “significant challenges to staff to respect the privacy of residents and provide care in a dignified and respectful manner”.

The 40-bed Health Service Executive facility was described as “bright, clean and in a good state of repair” but there was no safe outdoor space for residents because an area with garden furniture was located beside the entrance driveway and was not secure, inspectors said.