Inspection at Laois centre for people with disabilities finds errors with medications

An inspection by the Health and Information Quality Authority (HIQA) at a Laois centre for people with disabilities has found errors with medications given to patients. 

In one case a resident received nearly twice the recommended dose of prescribed medication while in another incident a resident was given less than they were supposed to receive. 

The centre, known as 'The Cottages' and run by the Muiríosa Foundation, was found to be non-compliant under the regulation 'medicines and pharmaceutical services'.

The report published on Tuesday, July 9 said the inspector "found that medications were not always administered as they should be. For example, in the weeks prior to the inspection, the resident received nearly twice the recommended dose of prescribed medication on one occasion and on another  occasion the resident received less than the recommended dose. This was a significant issue as the medication administered could be considered a high risk medication.

"In addition, there was a control liquid medication held in the centre and the inspector found that the twice daily checks conducted were held to a poor standard. 

"There were incorrect volumes of this medication calculated after administration and  the provider failed to account for accessions when this medication was administered  while they were in the care of their family. Due to the multiple errors, the provider  had to assure themselves, during the inspection, that the volume of control  medication in stock was accurate. However, when checked, it was incorrect.

"Furthermore, a resident was prescribed a rescue medication; however, the associated protocol for its administration was not in line with recommendations from their specialist consultant."

The centre was found to be compliant under ten of the sections inspected including: staffing, training and staff development, volunteers, complaints procedure, visits, risk management procedures, protection against infection, individual assessment and personal plan, protection and residents' rights. The centre was substantially compliant in governance and management, personal possessions, premises, and fire precautions. 

"Overall, the inspector found that day to day life was very pleasant for residents," the report stated. 

"They were well supported with their needs and staff who were on duty were kind  and considerate in their approach to care. In general, care was held to a good standard; however, some areas of care required adjustments including fire safety, personal possessions and the premises. In addition, medication management required further attention to ensure that this area of care was held to a good standard at all times."

The inspector said that although the centre was generally well maintained there was a persistent unresolved leak in the roof of one of the houses. Funding has been approved for the repairs needed which are expected to be completed by the end of September.