Sanctions imposed on Ira Parker Nursing Home have today been removed with the Australian Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC) confirming all 19 previously unmet criterions have now been met.
Yorke and Northern Local Health Network Chief Executive Officer, Roger Kirchner, said staff at the Ira Parker Nursing home have worked hard alongside the ACQSC to improve safety at the facility.
“While we were incredibly disappointed that we failed to meet accreditation standards, our first priority is, and always has been, the safety of our residents,” Mr Kirchner said.
“As a result of the hard work of our staff, we have been able to rectify the issues highlighted by the ACQSC, resulting in the sanctions being lifted.
“Over the last six months, we have implemented a number of measures including the installation of CCTV monitoring in the designated smoking areas and completed a full review of the fire alarm system.
“A review of site policies and procedures regarding smoking and resident responsibilities has also been conducted.
“Staff have also received additional fire and emergency training and a full risk assessment and mitigation has been conducted for residents at the facility who smoke.
“While the sanctions have now been lifted, we continue to welcome the Commonwealth’s scrutiny to help us ensure that we are providing the best possible services to our residents.
“I would like to thank our team of dedicated staff who were committed to improving the safety of the facility while minimising any risks to our residents.”
Following an unannounced visit in February 2019, Ira Parker Nursing home failed to meet 19 out of the 44 expected outcomes and received two sanctions in effect until September 2019.
Yorke and Northern Local Health Network will continue to work with the ACQSC to implement appropriate procedures and practices to ensure compliance is maintained.
The facility has now been fully reaccredited, with the next re-accreditation assessment due by May 2020.
