Test clinic protocols shock dad

A GOLD Coast father said he was outraged at what he saw when he took his son to be tested for COVID-19 at one of the city’s fever clinics.

On Friday night, Stephen Gleeson took his son, 14, to the Gold Coast University Hospital fever clinic after both had asthma-like symptoms.

Mr Gleeson said the security guard who handed them a mask, a nurse they provided details to and one of the administration staff who collected Medicare details weren’t wearing PPE gear.

“To mine and my son’s dismay, the security man wasn’t wearing a mask or gloves although he was in contact with each potentially infectious person, to hand them their masks,” he said. “It wasn’t until we had seen three staff and were told to take a seat, that we finally met people wearing full PPE, who take our test.”

Mr Gleeson had a negative test just after 7am on Monday while his son missed a day of school while he waited for results. Mr Gleeson said the safety measures put in place at the clinic concerned him.

“We try and do the right thing and get tested but then a Queensland Health facility – with people who have COVID symptoms – in my opinion doesn’t even ensure its staff are being safe,” he said. “What’s the point? I just give up.

“We went to make sure we’re safe but feel like we’ve put ourselves in more danger.”

A Queensland Health spokesman said safety of people attending its health facilities was a priority.

“PPE is required for clinical staff who have direct contact with confirmed cases or people being tested for COVID-19,” the spokesman said. “Face masks are more effective at reducing the risk of people infecting others, rather than protecting people from viruses. That’s why masks are mandatory for people getting tested.

“The risk of being infected, or passing on an infection is very low for staff who perform non-clinical duties, including administrative tasks. All Queensland Health facilities and the health of all workers at public fever clinics is closely monitored to protect themselves and the public. This includes testing when required.”