We carried out this inspection to check if the service had made improvements to the way it monitored the medication for medical emergencies.

We found that the medication was stored securely and the approach to how it was checked had been revised. We observed that all medication had been checked consistently each month and expiry dates had not been exceeded.

Patients were not available for us to speak with during the inspection.

Patients were not available to talk with us during our inspection. However, processes were in place to seek patient feedback about the service. The feedback we looked at was mainly positive. Comments by patients on the feedback forms included, “They [the staff] talk to you and are friendly” and there was “consultation throughout” the treatment. Staff provided us with examples of the action they had taken based on feedback which suggested areas for improvement.

Patient consent was sought prior to treatment. Records were maintained of each patient’s dental plan and the discussions with the patient about the plan.

Arrangements were in place for managing medical emergencies. We observed that the majority of the drugs held at the practice for medical emergencies had exceeded their expiry date.

A process was in place for the decontamination of reusable dental instruments which was in accordance with infection control guidance for dentistry. In addition, safety measures were in place for the use of diagnostic x-ray equipment.

A process for managing patient complaints was established. Arrangements were established for staff to receive an annual appraisal of their performance and to participate in ongoing training and development.