Notifiable events are a regulatory requirement and these include notification of a sudden death (NF01) and an outbreak of an infectious disease (NF02) among others. A proportionate approach is taken when providers do not comply with their regulatory requirements. When other means of ensuring sustained compliance with the regulations and standards have failed, such as implementation of a compliance plan (action plan), a cautionary or warning meeting with providers or a warning letter, enforcement action may be taken.
Compliance with all regulations is one aspect of the decision-making process to register or renew the registration of a centre. The fitness of the registered provider and other persons participating in the management of the centre must also be taken into account.
An inspection of the nursing home in question found it to be substantially compliant in regards to the notification of incidents. While the Chief Inspector of Social Services was satisfied that most matters requiring notification had been appropriately notified, during the outbreak, there had been delays in notification. In response to these delays, an action plan has been completed. Full details can be found in the inspection report from May 2020 which is available on the HIQA website.
