Louth nursing home earns top marks in unannounced HIQA inspection

Curam Care Home Dundalk has received a clean bill of health following a recent unannounced inspection by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA), with the service found to be fully compliant across all assessed areas.

The inspection, carried out on 14 April 2025, was part of HIQA’s ongoing monitoring programme and aimed to assess the centre’s compliance with the Health Act 2007 (Care and Welfare of Residents in Designated Centres for Older People) Regulations. The report praised the standard of care, governance, and facilities provided at the Toberona-based nursing home.

Inspectors found that residents at the 82-bed facility felt safe and well cared for, consistently describing the staff as “kind and attentive.” There was clear evidence of sufficient staffing levels, with prompt responses to call bells and a consistent presence of nursing staff throughout the day. Residents also reported regular visits from their GPs.

The report noted that Curam Care Home offers a long-term, respite, convalescent and specialist care including for dementia and palliative needs. The premises were described as clean and well-maintained, with a refurbishment plan underway for 2025. Recent improvements included newly replaced corridor flooring and freshly repainted woodwork and walls.

Inspectors observed staff actively supporting residents in communal areas, including the dining room, and noted the presence of a hairdresser during the inspection. Activities were described as “good and varied” by residents, with weekly timetables delivered to each room and the option to participate as desired.

Visitors were welcomed throughout the day with no restrictions, and there were dedicated spaces outside of resident bedrooms available for private visits. 

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The inspection confirmed full compliance with all regulations reviewed. These included staffing, governance, the management of care plans, visiting arrangements, nutrition, and premises maintenance. The report also highlighted the recent appointment of a new person-in-charge, who was found to be experienced and committed to continuous quality improvement.

Care plans were noted to be detailed and person-centred, with regular multidisciplinary input, especially in areas like nutrition and responsive behaviours associated with dementia. The use of restraints was minimal, and all required documentation including contracts, resident directories, and discharge letters was readily available and in order.

HIQA concluded that the provider, Dealgan House Nursing Home Ltd, was operating the service to a high standard and had implemented effective governance systems to ensure continued compliance and ongoing quality improvement.