The next planned CQC inspection is due to start on 3rd April and will last til April 5.

So now would be a good opportunity to check our progress and initial feedback, to help us make sure we’re all as prepared as we can be for the next three weeks.

However, before the planned visit we can expect more unannounced visits (spot checks where they just turn up on site) in the four core areas of ED, Critical Care, Maternity and Paediatric services. They can also visit other areas unannounced during their April 3-5 visit as well.

And as we reported last week the inspectors were really impressed with the welcoming response from our colleagues they’ve met with to-date.

Initial feedback for teams working in clinical areas has suggested we need to focus on how we:

• appropriately store and administer medicines,
• monitor fridge temperatures,
• manage the care of patients with safeguarding, mental health and capacity issues

What you can do to prepare:

• Remember, this is your opportunity to tell the visiting teams what you are proud of. Despite the pressure faced by the NHS, CHFT continues to strive to do its best for patients. There has been a considerable amount of improvement work since the CQC last inspected the Trust two years ago - and the team will be keen to hear from colleagues about what this means to them and our patients
• Information regarding the schedule of interviews and focus groups planned for the formal part of the inspection will be available shortly
• There are plenty of resources available for you on our CQC intranet page. This includes what we’ve learned and put in place since the last formal inspection, a staff handbook and information about what to do if the CQC visit your area. There is also a handy I need to know section with lots of useful info in one place.