The standard of cleanliness at Inverclyde Royal Hospital is generally good, according to an inspectors' report.

The Healthcare Environment Inspectorate's report, published today, commended NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde for its work in preventing infection and the comprehensive system of risk assessment and patient management in place.

The report also praised the provision of posters at the entrance to wards for visitors and patients, providing information for people whose first language is not English.

However the report called for more consistency in cleaning standards. The report also found inconsistencies in adherence to the NHS dress code, particularly among theatre staff who were observed in scrubs in public areas.

The report called for a number of improvements, including:

• Ensuring the dress code is strictly implemented and adhered to by all staff


• More effective communication to staff regarding ward audit updates


• Protecting doors and frames so the surfaces can be effectively cleaned

Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said:

"Tackling hospital infections remains a top priority and these reports help in our bid to drive up standards to ensure that patients and the public can have complete confidence in the cleanliness of hospitals.

"The inspectors highlighted a number of positives at Inverclyde Royal but also found areas where more could be done. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has put in place an action plan to address these and the inspectorate will monitor progress closely."

The Healthcare Environment Inspectorate operates independently of the Scottish Government and the NHS boards it inspects. It carries out both planned and unannounced inspections of hospitals. For administrative purposes, it is based within NHS Quality Improvement Scotland.

The inspection at Inverclyde Royal Hospital took place on January 28-29, 2010.