Health inspectors have raised concerns over the condition of an older person's facility in Athlone.
Hiqa carried out an inspection at St Vincent's care centre in April of this year while it was in the middle of a Covid 19 outbreak.
On the day of the inspection, a total of 24 residents were being cared for at the centre based on the Coosan Road.
A Covid outbreak was being managed at the time, and restrictions impacted on the day-to-day lives of the residents.
Hiqa noted that while residents described the care they received as "exceptional" and praised staff, a number of concerns in regards to the premises were noted.
Some of the areas in the centre were described as in a poor state of repair, in particular a fall risk which was identified in a gazebo used for smokers, and an unlocked fridge in a family room that held two cans of alcoholic drink.
Hiqa inspectors also noted that a number of areas of the building were in a poor state of repair, with this impacting on the ability to clean the centre effectively.
A lack of access to call bells was also noted, and the inspector observed many areas of the premises and resident equipment that was not cleaned to an acceptable standard.
Overall eight areas were compliant, three substantially compliant and two non-compliant.
Responding to the report, the HSE informed Hiqa that it was beginning a review of cleaning policies, procedures and guidelines currently being carried out.
They also confirmed that plans for a new build as part of the Public-Private Partnership project are at an advanced stage, with planning permission granted.
The new build will provide residents with the option of en-suite toilet and bathroom/shower facilities and greater communal and personal space, thus promoting each resident's privacy.
