The Mental Health Commission has raised concerns around the privacy and dignity of residents in the Acute Psychiatric Unit of Ennis General Hospital.
Inspectors found that the presence of security personnel when they were not required, and without due cause, was a breach of resident dignity.
There were 34 residents in the Acute Psychiatric Unit at Ennis General Hospital at the time of this announced inspection last November.
In a newly published report, the centre achieved 64% compliance on the inspection – a decrease of 10% compared to the year before.
12 non-compliances were recorded, including two regarded as critical.
One of those related to privacy.
The inspection team noted that the centre employed security personnel to assist staff in physical restraint, if requested.
One security person was observed walking the corridors and sitting in a communal area, while the inspector was informed that it was common practice that security staff also waited outside the dining room at mealtimes.
At times when this was not requred, or without due cause, this was found to be a breach of resident dignity.
The other critical risk rating came after it was noted that the centre did not ensure an accurate record was maintained of one resident’s personal property and possessions.
The Commission followed up on these areas of critical risk including by issuing an immediate action notice.
