First rapid antigen tests arrive on the Peninsula
A local aged care organisation has secured its first delivery of rapid antigen tests for Covid-19.
The delivery has arrived "significantly earlier than the nation-wide rollout which was expected to happen in November", according Peninsula Village chief executive Mr Fred JP Van Steel.
"The 9000 rapid antigen tests will be made available to all direct care staff across Peninsula Villages' three residential aged care facilities prior to every working shift.
"The roll-out will commence from the first shift Monday, October 18.
"Peninsula Villages is currently delivering the mandatory training to 28 registered staff nurses to distribute the tests to employees when commencing their shift, providing an extra layer of protection of their vulnerable residents.
"With many people now entering aged-care facilities daily, rapid antigen testing will greatly reduce the prospect of Covid-19 outbreaks at Peninsula Villages.
"Rapid antigen testing of visitors to residential aged care facilities is currently under discussion and consideration, awaiting further guidance on risk assessments."
Mr Van Steel said: "Peninsula Villages moved to immediately acquire the rapid tests after former NSW Premier Ms Gladys Berejiklian announced region-wide lockdowns would conclude on October 11, after the state reached 70 per cent of its eligible population becoming fully vaccinated, and in advance of visitors being welcomed back to the facility. "Rapid antigen tests provide results in just 15 minutes and will provide further assurance for high-risk residents as lockdown eases."
He said: "It is our obligation to make the testing accessible through our registered nurses, to help identify Covid cases as early as possible.
"Being a leading aged care provider, we want to provide the greatest level of protection for our residents and staff, and lead the way for others in the community."
In August, Peninsula Village opened a vaccination hub for all local aged care staff to assist with the mandated vaccine rollout.
For more information, visit the Peninsula Villages website at peninsulavillage.com.au or phone 02 4344 9199.
SOURCE:
Media release, 14 Oct 2021
Emily Miller, Brilliant Logic