Introduction of molecular point-of-care testing for SARS-CoV-2 in a triage unit of a large maternity hospital: An evaluation of staff experiences

Context: Recent advances in the development of rapid SARS-CoV-2 point of care (POC) testing provided an opportunity to aid clinical decision making in front-line healthcare settings. Perspectives of POC COVID-19 screening of pregnant women are under-researched. Objective: To assess the impact of a SARS-CoV-2 POC testing platform implemented in a busy maternity hospital, with limited isolation capacity, during the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: We conducted a before and after comparison of two consecutive 12-month periods and a retrospective evaluation of staff attitudes and POC test acceptance. Turnaround Time (TAT) and testing numbers were assessed by computer audit. Qualitative data was collected using confidential questionnaires. Results: Mean TAT for the POC platform was 5.3x quicker (p < 0.001, chi-square test) when compared with local virus laboratory PCR testing. Samples sent for laboratory testing reduced by almost one third, following introduction of the POC device. A total of 27 staff members completed a POC testing satisfaction survey, which documented ease of use and benefits for diagnosis assistance, patient management and patient experience. Conclusion. In this single-center maternity setting, POC testing decreased laboratory testing volume and SARS-Cov-2 result TAT for symptomatic women and those awaiting crucial investigations. POC COVID-19 investigation was deemed acceptable by the clinical team for facilitating patient placement, management, and use of limited isolation capacity.