A CARE home inspector found poor interaction' between staff and residents during a surprise inspection.

The Commission for Social Care Inspection has just published the findings and recommendations after a routine visit to the privately run Riverbank Nursing Home in Howley over two days in June.

The inspector used a new method of studying care by watching a small group of residents for two hours at the 150-bed home in Egerton Street, which is run by BUPA.

While in Firth House he said: l A nurse startled a resident by pulling his chair into line with the rest from behind without telling him. He was then fed and his mouth wiped without anyone speaking to him.

l A member of staff spent five minutes trying to feed a resident who appeared to be asleep.

l A resident was not given a drink after lunch and then hoisted with a sling by two nurses without either of them speaking to her.

A survey of three relatives also raised concerns - one said they would find their father-in-law still with food on his face from a meal.

The inspector also noted a staff member called some residents feeders'.

The social side of care was judged adequate' by the inspector, Anthony Cliffe, and he asked for staff training on treating patients with respect, and training on individual centered thinking and planning'.

He said there were some poor practices there were generally positive interactions between staff and residents, and he rated all the other categories like hygiene as good.

However the inspector also said of Firth House: "Some residents were smoking in the main lounge, some people were coughing. There was no attempt to move them nearer to a window. Later a fan was put on which helped to clear the air."

Tracey Fletcher, BUPA Care Homes' regional director, said: "We are pleased the report said Riverbank Nursing Home provides a good level of care and service.

"It added that Riverbank offers a good range of care and services for residents with differing needs, the health and safety of staff and residents are well provided for, a social activities programme is in place and the environment is also good.

"As the home met the regulatory standards, CSCI made only three recommendations."