Mental health unit findings to be raised with minister

FINDINGS of serious regulatory breaches and poor hygienic conditions at the adult mental health unit in Mayo University Hospital are to be raised with the Minister for Health.

The issues were identified in a report published yesterday (Thursday) by the Mental Health Commission (MHC).

The MHC said the standard of developing individual care plans for residents was rated as a critical risk. Other areas judged to be a critical risk were therapeutic services and programmes, staffing and consent to treatment.

Other non-compliant areas identified related to safety. Radiators were not cleaned for six months and posed a fire hazard. Ligature points had not been mitigated and the inspection team identified numerous ligature risks throughout the approved centre.

Under the codes of practice for admission, transfer and discharge the centre had a high risk rating.

Mayo TD Lisa Chambers commented on the findings: “It is alarming to read the report which identified critical risks to patients. It is extremely concerning that there were not enough therapeutic programmes in place and staff shortages were limiting occupational therapy, psychology and social work services.

“Fortunately, there have been no serious incidents with patients or staff that we know of, however this was a real possibility and entirely preventable.

“Serious questions must be answered by HSE management and the department. I understand corrective measures have been taken. However, we have to question how it was allowed to get to this state.”

Deputy Chambers said she would be raising the matter with the Minister for Health to ensure the facilities for patients, staff, and visitors are of a high standard.