Care Home General Observation Checklist

Care Home General Observation Checklist using eAuditor Audits & Inspections helps ensure that routine inspections and observations in the care home are thorough and consistent. This checklist can be used during walk-throughs by managers, auditors, or care staff to ensure that the care environment is safe, clean, and that residents are receiving proper care.

Here is a Care Home General Observation Checklist template you can adapt for use in eAuditor Audits & Inspections:

1. General Information

• Date of Observation
• Observer’s Name
• Care Home Name
• Location (Ward/Room)

2. Environment and Cleanliness

• Are resident rooms clean, tidy, and free from hazards?
• Are common areas (lounges, dining rooms) clean and well-maintained?
• Does facility dispose waste, including clinical waste, correctly and safely?
• Are there any unpleasant odors in the facility?
• Are floors clean, dry, and free from obstacles (e.g., spills, clutter)?
• Does facility maintain hand hygiene stations (hand sanitizers) properly?
• Are bathrooms and toilets clean, accessible, and in working order?
• Are laundry areas clean, and is laundry stored appropriately?

3. Safety and Security

• Does facility label fire exits clear, properly  and accessible?
• Are fire alarms and smoke detectors in working condition?
• Does facility keep emergency lighting systems functional?
• Is there a visible evacuation plan in place?
• Does facility store all chemicals and cleaning supplies securely?
• Are there functioning door alarms or secure access systems in place?
• Does facility maintain window restrictors where required?
• Are staff and visitors signing in and out as per policy?

4. Resident Well-being

• Are residents observed to be clean, comfortable, and well-groomed?
• Do residents appear comfortable and free from distress?
• Are residents appropriately dressed for the time of day and weather?
• Are mobility aids (e.g., walkers, wheelchairs) in good condition and accessible to residents?
• Is there evidence of residents being provided with drinks or snacks throughout the day?
• Are call bells within reach for residents, and are they functioning?
• Does facility engage residents in activities or social interaction?

5. Staff Interaction and Care

• Are staff respectful and polite in their interactions with residents?
• Are staff actively engaging with residents (e.g., helping with mobility, offering assistance)?
• Do staff respond promptly to call bells or resident needs?
• Are staff wearing appropriate uniforms and identification?
• Does facility staff observe following hygiene protocols (e.g., handwashing, wearing PPE)?
• Is there visible leadership (manager or senior staff present and overseeing care)?
• Are staff adequately attending to residents’ dietary and hydration needs?

6. Medication Management

• Does facility staff store medications securely in locked cabinets or trolleys?
• Are medication administration records (MAR) up-to-date and accurate?
• Are medications prepared and administered correctly to residents?
• Is medication disposal handled according to protocols (expired or unused meds)?
• Are medication errors reported and documented appropriately?

7. Infection Control

• Are staff following infection control protocols (e.g., PPE use, hand hygiene)?
• Are resident rooms and common areas cleaned regularly to prevent infections?
• Is personal protective equipment (PPE) available and used appropriately?
• Are isolation precautions in place for residents with contagious conditions?
• Does care home follow policies on infection control (e.g., vaccinations, testing)?
• Is there a system for reporting and managing outbreaks of infections?

8. Food and Nutrition

• Are dietary restrictions and preferences of residents documented and respected?
• Are meals served on time and in appropriate portions?
• Is the food presented well, and does it appear nutritious and appetizing?
• Are residents being assisted with meals if necessary?
• Are drinks readily available to residents at all times?
• Is the kitchen area clean, organized, and compliant with food safety standards?
• Are snacks available for residents between meals?

9. Maintenance and Equipment

• Are lights, heating, and ventilation systems in working condition?
• Are lifts and stairlifts working correctly?
• Does facility keep beds, hoists, and other equipment functional and safe to use?
• Is there a process for reporting and addressing maintenance issues?
• Are outdoor areas (gardens, walkways) safe, clean, and accessible for residents?

10. Documentation and Record-Keeping

• Are care plans up-to-date and accessible to staff?
• Does facility staff complete daily notes and observations accurately and on time?
• Are incident reports (accidents, falls) documented correctly?
• Does facility record staff handovers and carry out effectively?
• Is there a system for tracking staff training and competency?
• Are resident assessments (mobility, dietary, medical) updated regularly?

11. Resident Feedback

• Do residents appear satisfied with the care and support they receive?
• Are any complaints or concerns from residents documented and followed up?
• Does facility involve residents and families in care decisions?
• Is there a regular feedback system in place for residents and their families?

12. Summary of Findings

• Overall Status of Care Home: (Satisfactory, Needs Improvement, Non-compliant)
• Notable Issues/Concerns Observed:
  • (List specific observations and areas of concern)
• Follow-up Actions Required:
  • (List actions needed and responsible person/department)
• Deadline for Corrective Actions:
• Signature of Observer:
• Signature of Care Home Manager:

This Care Home General Observation Checklist for a care home can be customized further depending on the specific care home policies, local regulations, or areas needing closer observation. eAuditor Audits & Inspections’ digital platform allows for automated reporting, action assignments, and real-time updates, making it easier to ensure compliance and follow-up on any issues identified during the observations.