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A damning report ​has revealed⁣ serious failings at a care home in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, resulting in “significant harm” to residents. The Care Quality Commission (CQC)‌ found that residents at Oakwood House were at risk of malnutrition, dehydration, and‌ inadequate care, following an⁢ unannounced inspection in‌ December 2023 and January 2024.

• Medication errors: The CQC identified multiple instances of medication errors, including residents receiving the wrong dosage or medication at the ⁣wrong time.
• Lack of adequate nutrition and hydration: Inspectors found insufficient evidence ‍that residents were receiving enough‌ food and drink, leading ‍to concerns about⁣ malnutrition and dehydration.
• Staffing levels: The report highlighted concerns about insufficient staffing levels, impacting the quality of care provided.
• Poor record-keeping: ⁢Records were incomplete and inaccurate, hindering effective monitoring‌ of residents’ health and wellbeing.

The CQC has placed ⁣Oakwood House into special measures, meaning it will be closely monitored and inspected again within six months. If⁣ improvements are not made, further action, including potential closure, will be considered.

“People were at risk of avoidable harm because the service‍ was not well-led. Systems and processes were not effective in identifying ⁢and responding to risks,” the CQC report stated.”Staff did not always follow best practice guidance for safe medication management.”

Oakwood House, operated by HC-One, has‌ been contacted for comment. A spokesperson for⁢ HC-One said they were “deeply sorry” for the concerns raised and are “committed to working with the CQC to address the issues⁤ identified.” They added that a comprehensive action plan is in ‍place to improve standards of care.

This ⁤report follows a series of concerns raised about care standards in the ​UK, prompting calls for increased regulation ⁢and investment in the social care sector. You‍ can find more information about the ‍CQC and their reports on their website.