The Residential Care Homes Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005

Requirements to ensure quality of care and other service provision

12.—(1) The registered person shall provide care and any other services to residents in accordance with the statements of purpose, and shall ensure that the care, treatment, if necessary, and other services provided to each resident –

(a) meet his individual need;

(b) reflect current best practice; and

(c) are (where necessary) provided by means of appropriate aids or equipment.

(2) The registered person shall ensure that all aids and equipment used in or for the purpose of the residential care home is –

(a) suitable for the purposes for which it is to be used; and

(b) properly maintained and in good working order.

(3) Where reusable medical devices are used in a home, the registered person shall ensure that appropriate procedures are implemented and adhered to in relation to cleaning, disinfection, inspection, packaging, sterilisation, transportation and storage of such devices.

(4) The procedures implemented in accordance with paragraph (3) shall be such as to ensure that reusable medical devices are handled safely and decontaminated effectively in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidance prior to re-use.

(5) The registered person shall ensure that food and drink –

(a) are provided in adequate quantities and at appropriate intervals;

(b) are properly prepared, wholesome and nutritious and meets their nutritional requirements;

(c) are suitable for the needs of residents;

(d) provide choice for the residents;

(e) that the menu is varied at suitable intervals.