If you are tested for COVID-19 illness at your urgent care clinic, you should understand your test results and how to care for yourself afterwards. Knowing about the kinds of urgent care COVID testing available and what to do after receiving test results is so important. You will benefit your own health and safety and that of those around you.
Here is more about COVID tests and what aftercare involves.
Two Kinds of Urgent Care COVID Testing
When you visit an urgent care center for COVID-19 testing, you likely will encounter two primary types of tests. They are the PCR test and the Rapid Antigen test.
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) Test
The PCR test is the gold standard for detecting active COVID-19 infection. It involves collecting a sample – typically via a nasal or throat swab – and analyzing it in a laboratory.
The polymerase chain reaction test actually increases the activity of the genetic material contained in the COVID-19 virus. This action makes the virus more easily and more accurately detected.
However, the results from the polymerase chain reaction test can take some time. It may be anywhere from a few hours to several days for results to return to the urgent care clinic and be transmitted to the patient.
Rapid Antigen Test
The rapid antigen test provides quicker lab results, often within 15 to 30 minutes. The test involves a simple nasal swab.
While somewhat less sensitive than the PCR test, the rapid antigen test is still very effective and reliable. The rapid antigen test is especially helpful if a person has active symptoms or has been recently exposed to the COVID-19 virus. Also, the rapid antigen test helps hospitals, transportation hubs (such as airports), and other venues get reliable test results in the shortest time possible.
Whichever test you take, you can rely on the testing personnel and the lab testing at your urgent care center in King, NC. We perform the tests accurately and comfortably. We ensure you receive your test results quickly and 100 percent confidently.
What to Do If You Test Positive for COVID-19
If your COVID-19 test result is positive, follow these guidelines as you recover.
Isolate Yourself
Immediately begin self-isolation to prevent spreading the COVID-19 virus to others. Stay in a separate room and use a different bathroom if possible. Avoid going to work or school, and stay out of crowds and public spaces, such as supermarkets.
Inform Your Close Contacts
Notify anyone you have been in close contact with over the past two weeks. This way, they also can get tested and take necessary safety precautions.
Monitor Your Symptoms
Track all of your symptoms. Get medical attention at your urgent care clinic or with your PCP if they worsen. Your healthcare provider can tell you how to manage your symptoms at home.
Follow CDC Guidelines
Adhere to the guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for isolation and when it is safe to end your isolation period. In general, it is safe for you to return to your normal routines if you have had no fever for at least 24 hours and your symptoms seem to be improving.
Additionally, even when you are improving, take precautions when indoors. Practices such as wearing a mask, avoiding close contact with family and coworkers, and testing again if you want to be sure you are well are all recommended. When you follow these guidelines, you protect those around you so they, too, do not get sick.
What to Do If Your Test Results Are Negative
A negative test result gives you peace of mind. However, ensure to do the following steps over the next week or so.
Continue Precautions
Keep practicing preventive measures such as wearing a mask, social distancing, and frequent hand washing.
Monitor Symptoms
If you develop new symptoms after testing negative, get tested again. Avoid close contact with other people until you know for sure that you are well.
COVID-19 Testing at Cardinal Urgent Care in King, NC
At Cardinal Urgent Care, we understand the importance of quick and reliable COVID-19 testing. Here are some benefits of our services.
No Appointment Is Necessary
You can walk into our clinic during regular business hours without an appointment.
Comprehensive Care
Our experienced team will handle your assessment, testing, and diagnosis quickly. We also will help you understand how to effectively treat your symptoms.
Flexible Hours
We are open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 8 pm and on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 5 pm.
Cardinal Urgent Care Patient Testimonial
Read what one of our patients said about his experience at Cardinal Urgent Care:
“This was my first visit to Cardinal Urgent Care regarding a COVID infection. Staff there is absolutely top drawer! Don’t be thinking that these folks are your run of the mill neighborhood care center. I would rate them on par with my primary care team who are part of a much larger health care system in Winston-Salem. These folks are analytical, thorough, knowledgeable and extremely professional. I would not hesitate at all to recommend them to friends and family, and as a matter of fact, have done so already. Give these folks a try. You won’t be sorry!”
Urgent Care COVID Testing in King, NC
If you suspect your upper respiratory symptoms are related to COVID-19, come to Cardinal Urgent Care during regular business hours. We ensure you receive prompt and professional care whatever the cause of your symptoms.
For more information about our clinic and our professional team, call us at (336) 983-9111. If you wish, you may schedule a consultation ahead of time by filling out our appointment request form.
