The Royal United Hospital has been praised for meeting all the essential standards of quality and care, though  improvements are needed on the elderly unit.

Inspectors from health watchdog the Care Quality Commission visited the hospital and assessed it on eight standards of care, ranging from meals to management and patients being treated with respect.

During the five-day visit in November, inspectors found that all eight key NHS standards were met, though they recommended that a few improvements should be made.

These include ensuring that on the older person’s unit all patient records for hydration and nutritional needs are fully completed, and treating patients with more dignity when they use the bathroom.

Overall, inspectors praised the hospital for delivering care with patience and kindness, and involving patients in their decisions.

The inspectors said:  “People, or those acting on their behalf, who come to the hospital for care and treatment, are able to be involved in making decisions about their care and treatment.

“People are given or have access to information to help then take these decisions. The hospital recognises the diversity and values of people in its care and involves people in how the service is run.

“Most people are treated with dignity and respect.”

The report can be seen at www.cqc.org.uk.