- Published
- 02 June 2022
- Other
The Management of COVID-19 in Nursing Homes in Ireland and England: Ethical and Legal Issues in a Time of Pandemic
- Authors
- Source
- University of Edinburgh School of Law Research Paper Series
Abstract
This paper provides an overview of the key issues that arose in relation to the management of COVID-19 in care homes in Ireland and England between February 2020 and December 2021, with reference to relevant policies, processes, and practices. There is a particular focus on the first wave of the pandemic between February and June 2020, where the risk of contracting and dying from COVID-19 was highest for residents in care homes. The paper examines a number of key issues impacting management of the risk posed by COVID-19 in care homes including the availability of testing; the use of personal protective equipment; staffing; safe discharge from hospitals; the use of Do Not Attempt Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Orders (DNACPR); visiting and access restrictions; and the recording of care home deaths. A critical analysis is also provided of broader themes impacting the management of COVID-19 in care homes during 2020-21, including ethical issues, human rights, regulatory governance and accountability.
Cite as
Tumelty, M., Ó Néill, C., Donnelly, M., Farrell, A., Frowde, R. & Pentony, L. 2022, 'The Management of COVID-19 in Nursing Homes in Ireland and England: Ethical and Legal Issues in a Time of Pandemic', University of Edinburgh School of Law Research Paper Series, article no: 2022/11. https://www.research.ed.ac.uk/en/publications/db25fe4a-6c33-4c43-9c8d-1f4e42374480