Hospital chiefs at Watford General have responded to a report after an unannounced inspection by a government regulator saying the feedback is "very helpful".

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) released the report of an inspection it carried out in November last week.

West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs Watford General, said inspectors were complimentary of much of what they saw and improvements made in recent years, notably commenting: "Overall, staff were very kind and compassionate in their approach to patient care and the hospital was seeking meaningful feedback from patients and their advocates. Patients' dignity was respected."

During the inspection, concerns were raised by the CQC in relation to the trust’s process surrounding the application of the Mental Capacity Act and ensuring any Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards1 were evidenced.

The hospital said this arose because of inspectors’ observations relating to care of a patient at Watford Hospital. The report details how the CQC looked for greater assurance around how the hospital supports people with confusion, delirium or dementia.

In response to the report, the trust undertook detailed audits to ensure that all patients and especially vulnerable patients are being well cared for across all three sites and in all clinical specialties.

The trust then produced a detailed action report, which has been shared with the CQC.

Jac Kelly, chief executive, said: "I am assured that the very helpful feedback we have received from the CQC has helped us to improve the care we provide for patients who are less aware of their own needs. We now await the results of the planned inspection that took place in April 2015."

Chair of Hertfordshire Healthwatch, Geoff Brown said: "As ever, West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust has taken a very positive stance in response to criticism. We will continue working with the hospital as a critical friend, to help ensure patients get the best possible quality of care."