Full marks for elderly care at King George Hospital after health watchdog inspection

A health watchdog has praised the care of elderly patients at King George Hospital after an unannounced inspection.

Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) visited Elm, Erica and Fern wards at the hospital in Barley Lane, Goodmayes.

A spokesman said the wards were chosen because “most of the concerns” members of the public have raised with CQC about King George Hospital had been about elderly care.

The report found all standards of quality and safety were being met, including respecting people, meeting nutritional needs, care and welfare of patients, safeguarding people from abuse and staffing.

All patients’ needs were assessed and care and treatment was delivered in line with individual care plans.

One patient told inspectors: “If you’ve got to be away in hospital then this in the place to be. Everyone is really lovely, there is a friendly atmosphere and you get enough attention.”

The inspectors added: “We observed that staff treated patients in a caring manner, speaking softly to them and asking what they needed, and then being responsive to their needs.”

Patients said they felt safe in the hospital and felt comfortable reporting any concerns they had to staff.

Inspectors found there were enough qualified, skilled and experienced staff to meet patients’ needs.

Each ward has physiotherapists, occupational therapists and assistants caring for patients.

Director of nursing Flo Panel-Coates said: “I am delighted that the CQC inspectors have been so positive about the care we provide.

“We have been working hard to improve care for elderly patients, and it is particularly pleasing to hear their comments in this report.”