Health Inspectors Warn of Hazards in Killarney Nursing Home

Inspectors from the Health Information and Quality Authority (Hiqa) have raised serious concerns regarding the conditions at a nursing home in Killarney, Ireland. The facility, operated by the Health Service Executive (HSE), remains open despite existing plans to relocate its residents to a new building. The latest report indicates that the facility’s dementia unit contains mould, which poses a significant health hazard for residents.

A public-private partnership between the HSE and the joint venture Sisk and Equitix was intended to deliver seven new nursing homes in the past year. Yet, only two facilities have been handed over to the HSE, and no new sites, including those in Cork, Tipperary, and Kerry, have opened. According to the Irish Examiner and Radio Kerry, these delays have exacerbated the conditions at Killarney Community Hospital.

Hiqa has noted that it has not yet received an application from the HSE to register the Killarney site. The report highlights the deteriorating state of the building, where residents are otherwise reportedly well cared for. While residents and their families expressed satisfaction with the care provided, they also reported that the facility is in a poor state of repair.

The inspectors specifically pointed out issues in the dementia-specific Fuschia unit, citing poor decor and flooring, as well as areas affected by dampness and mould that require immediate remediation. Throughout the nursing home, inspectors observed significant wear and tear on floor surfaces and damage to walls, which increases the risk of falls for frail or unsteady residents. Ongoing maintenance is deemed crucial to address these concerns.

Hiqa reported, “Mould was observed on a number of areas, including a bedroom wall, in a sluice room, and in a cleaner’s store.” The presence of mould resulted in a strong odour, raising health and safety risks for the residents. The Hiqa team learned that all residents are slated to be moved to the new unit on the grounds of St Finian’s in Killarney. However, the new building has yet to be handed over to the HSE. As of now, Hiqa stated, “To date, an application has not been received by the Office of the Chief Inspector to register this new centre.”

Residents have expressed their eagerness to transition to the new facility. One resident in a four-bedded room remarked, “I would prefer my own space,” while others anticipate enjoying modern amenities and increased personal space. Currently, many residents face limited storage options and must share bedside lockers. Some, however, have indicated they appreciate sharing a room.

While Hiqa found no issues related to staffing levels, inspectors did highlight a lack of oversight regarding the premises and infection control, which poses significant risks to residents’ health. In response to Hiqa’s findings, the HSE stated that remedial works have been undertaken in the Fuschia unit, including repainting. Additionally, a fire door has been repaired, and changes were made to linen storage practices.

The HSE Southwest previously informed the Irish Examiner that the handover of the new building involves a complex commercial and legal process, which is currently under active management by the HSE at a national level. Minister of State for Older People, Kieran O’Donnell, informed an Oireachtas committee that he anticipates residents will move to the new Killarney facility by March 2024. However, other facilities in the group of seven are expected to have longer lead-in times, with some HSE regions estimating opening dates for next summer.

As the situation develops, the health and safety of vulnerable residents in the Killarney nursing home remains a pressing concern, prompting ongoing scrutiny and calls for immediate action.