Hospital staff were given no formal education about COVID-19, a report has found.

Unannounced inspectors from Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS) were told that workers at Ayrshire Central Hospital had not had any formal training relating to coronavirus.

An HIS report published the month found staff learned about the virus through posters, daily briefs, the director of nursing’s blog and information shared between them.

However, inspectors praised NHS Ayrshire and Arran (NHSA&A) for its domestic resource, including cleaning in light of COVID-19.

As older people can be particularly vulnerable to COVID-19, HIS’s current inspections have a combined focus on safety and cleanliness, and the care of older people.

Ian Smith, Head of Quality of Care at HIS, said: “During our inspection we noted a good domestic resource within the hospital, including additional dedicated resource for cleaning frequently-touched surfaces in light of COVID-19.

“However, assessments for food, fluid and nutrition were not accurately completed in line with national guidance. Moreover, we noted poor compliance with mandatory education and were told by staff that there had been no formal education for staff relating to COVID-19.

“We expect that all requirements are addressed and the necessary improvements are made.”

Jenny Wilson, Interim Deputy Nurse Director and Assistant Director of Quality Improvement, said: “NHSA&A is committed to the provision of high standards to ensure our patients receive safe and dignified care at all times. Our teams have a strong focus on ensuring that improvements are made to deliver the best possible care across health and social care services.

“NHSA&A values scrutiny and inspection of our services as a learning organisation. We acknowledge the recent HIS report following their unannounced inspection Ayrshire Central Hospital from Tuesday 13 to Thursday 15 October 2020.

“The report has highlighted some areas for further improvement and these have been addressed in our action plan.”