A JOHNSTONE nursing home has been graded as “weak” for its care and support during the Covid pandemic after repeated inspections.

Bosses at Cochrane Care Home have been told their management of clinical waste is not up to scratch, despite being instructed to make improvements following two previous check-ups by the Care Inspectorate.

The watchdog also insisted cleaning records at the Quarrelton Road home still need work, alongside forward planning for any future outbreaks.

Inspectors made surprise visits on December 16 and 18 and issued a letter of serious concern, demanding immediate action, after they found multiple issues with infection control and prevention practices.

The letter called for urgent improvements to the accuracy of records and clinical waste management, as well as the sharing of information and management oversight.

But when assessors returned a few days later, they found further work was needed and now have plans to make a fourth visit to ensure all of their requirements are met.

In a report to the Scottish Parliament, inspectors confirmed that their initial visit to the care home led to concerns about infection prevention and control practice.

Following the latest visit, the watchdog gave a grading of “adequate” for people’s health and wellbeing but said infection prevention and control and staffing arrangements were still “weak.”

The home, run by Silverline Care Caledonia Limited, provides support for up to 65 older people.

May Prentice, head of operations at Silverline Care, said: “Safeguarding the health and wellbeing of our residents and staff is our top priority.

“The past year has been particularly difficult for those who work in the care industry, care home residents and their loved ones.

“Despite the additional pressures associated with Covid-19, progress was made between the Care Inspectorate’s visits to Cochrane Care Home.

“Since then, our staff have continued to work tirelessly to ensure each of the Care Inspectorate’s recommendations have been actioned.

“This has included additional staff training and the introduction of daily flash reports.

“We are pleased to say Cochrane Care Home has now been deemed ‘Covid free’ and we will continue to adapt the way we work to respond to coronavirus.”