The ’Swab Squad’ at the Grandstand has carried out more than 1,700 tests for coronavirus since the mobile unit launched on March 20. We take a look behind the scenes with registered nurse Amanda Phillips.

The pit lane and offices at the iconic TT Grandstand has been requisitioned for use as a drive-in screening unit in the fight against Covid-19.

For more than three weeks now, a team of nurses has carried out hundreds of throat and nasal swabs on patients suspected of having coronavirus.

The unit is staffed by nurses redeployed from other areas including education, community nursing, general practice and clinical governance.

Student nurses, overseen by experienced practitioners, have proved invaluable and have played a significant role in delivering the service.

Patients who meet the criteria for screening are referred to the Grandstand swab squad via the 111 telephone service, where nurses - wearing protective equipment - will take further details before carrying out the swabbing procedure.

Although obtaining the specimen is a relatively simple procedure, a number of checks need to be undertaken before (and after) swabbing to allow the sample to be safely retrieved and processed.

To facilitate this, an administrative team works closely with the nurses to prepare swab packs, populate laboratory forms and update electronic records.

The ’Swab Squad’ is further augmented by Department of Infrastructure staff and dedicated police officers who, between them, co-ordinate traffic and ensure the process runs smoothly.

Registered nurse Amanda Phillips is the designated communications officer and works alongside senior nurse tutors, Mick Fleming and Ber Devlin, who oversee the running of the newly-formed department.

Amanda was keen to praise staff for their adaptability.

She said: ’Our team consists of employees from four government departments who have united to deliver an essential service.

’We’ve encountered a few teething problems, due to staff having to work outdoors, but everyone has remained professional and continued to focus on the job at hand.’

Staff well-being is of paramount importance and, time allowing, the team de-stress at the end of each day by partaking in light physical exercise.

Local businesses and members of the public have helped keep team morale high by generously donating food and snacks.

Amanda explained how the team extends well beyond the Grandstand. She said: ’Although we’re the public face of Covid screening, we’re a small part of a much larger team.

’Laboratory staff at Noble’s are working tirelessly to prepare specimens for testing and the infection control team ensure we receive equipment supplies and up-to-date information.

’The hospital catering department is also doing a great job making sure we’re fed and watered, and the porters have been incredibly helpful too.’

A dedicated community screening team provides cover for house-bound patients who have been referred by the 111 service, but the majority of referrals will be expected to attend the Grandstand.