Read again: Optimising safeguarding audits for enhanced patient care

For practice managers, navigating the intricate landscape of safeguarding and implementing meticulous audits is imperative, as it not only aligns with CQC standards but also ensures the continuous enhancement of patient care and adherence to evolving inspection methodologies

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Practice Index

In the realm of general practice, safeguarding stands tall as a paramount theme, especially in the scrutiny of the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Audits emerge as invaluable tools for delving into historical data and ensuring data quality, offering the additional advantage of holistic process evaluation and the identification of potential systemic flaws. In the age of patient online record access, the continuous enhancement of data quality takes on heightened importance.

Delegating audit duties

Before entrusting your audit, articulate clear objectives and information notation preferences. Precise guidance prevents the return of unclear information, saving you from sifting through data to extract meaningful insights. Consider what actions will follow the information collection; a well-defined plan ensures efficient data utilisation.

Collaboration with safeguarding leads

Initiate discussions with your safeguarding lead before commencing the audit, garnering their insights and potential contributions. Document and formalise findings review sessions, as this crucial step significantly influences CQC ratings. Regular re-auditing and reviews every 6 or 12 months exemplify a commitment to continuous improvement.

Delegating audit focus areas

Delegate the safeguarding and vulnerability audit to qualified team members who can thoroughly assess:

• Patients over 18 with safeguarding alerts.
• Vulnerable patients, including those with learning difficulties, previous safeguarding alerts, and brain injuries.
• Patients who are currently or were ‘looked after children.’
• Children on a Child Protection Plan.
• Children with Child in Need or Child Protection Plan identified.

Benefits and estimated time

The audit’s ultimate goal is to enhance the care of vulnerable patients. The time investment varies with patient list size but typically ranges from two minutes for simple audits to ten minutes for more complex cases.

Relevant KLOEs/Quality Statements

Referencing relevant Key Lines of Enquiry (KLOEs) and Quality Statements ensures alignment with inspection standards. Considerations include safety and safeguarding system development, staff training effectiveness, and identification of individuals at risk.

Action plan

Specific actions post-audit include:

• Reviewing safeguarding alerts for patients over 18.
• Identifying vulnerable patients and adding relevant read codes.
• Addressing missed immunisations for ‘looked after children.’
• Ensuring appropriate record warnings for children on a Child Protection Plan.
• Reviewing multi-agency case conferences and meetings for children with identified needs.

Notably, not all vulnerable patients may surface through read-code-led reports, warranting input from patient-facing and clinical staff to identify potential cases.

In the intricate landscape of safeguarding, meticulous audits and proactive measures lay the foundation for an unwavering commitment to patient care and the continuous improvement demanded by CQC standards.