As a Manager, the key audits that need to be carried out must be fully understood and the stages include planning and preparation, reviewing quality, improving practice, and sustaining improvement.

For successful implementation of an audit process follows these 8 steps.

Step One Set out the areas that need auditing

This should cover all areas of the care home including planning, delivering, and recording care, staff, the home environment and maintenance and the CQC Key Questions.

Step Two Clarify the frequency for each audit

Some areas may only need to be audited on a monthly or quarterly basis to ensure compliance others daily or weekly. All audit schedules should be risk-based.

Step Three Create an Audit Planner/Tracker

It is essential to schedule and track the completion of audits, so outcomes both positive and negative are available for your to base planned quality improvements and influence the frequency of future audit schedules.

Step Four Share the Process with your Team

Share the audit scheduled – Give your team notice of any audits so they can get the necessary documents and materials prepared for the auditor.

Step Five Always be prepared

Prepare your staff for audits and inspections by practising and coaching.

Step Six Interview your Team as part of the audit Process

An auditor should interview the staff and test their understanding of aspects of care delivery Infection Control best practice, safeguarding, moving, and handling.

Step Seven

Document the results and outcomes and create action plans that clearly highlight areas for improvement and associated actions.

Step Eight Share the Findings

Creating an audit report that is easy to understand and support the improvement and development of your care home.

If you are planning to, or currently are, implementing an improvement programme in your care service check out the 9 Fundamentals for sustaining quality improvement, which is the first module of the Qualitizer Process™

https://mailchi.mp/registeredcaremanager/the-9-fundamentals-of-quality-improvement