Patients have so many questions about COVID-19 tests. They want to know the accuracy and factors affecting the sensitivity and accuracy of test results. Given the role COVID-19 testing plays in helping to control the spread of the virus, more attention is drawn to the reliability of these tests and standard protocols that determine the accuracy of COVID-19 lab test results.
If you have questions about the accuracy and reliability of these tests, then you’re in the right place. In this guide, you will learn about the quality of specimens, instruments, and chemical reagents used for conducting the test. At Rapid Care, we’re committed to providing you with the latest information so you can make informed decisions that meet your needs.
Facts You Should Know About COVID-19 Tests
COVID-19 testing plays a critical role in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Hence, following appropriate testing guidelines is key to having accurate diagnostic test results.
For COVID-19 testing, nasopharyngeal swabs are the preferred clinical specimen for sample collection for COVID-19 tests. This is because they demonstrate a significantly higher positivity rate and significantly higher mean viral load on nasal samples than oropharyngeal swab samples.
Samples collected through this route have a lower chance of false or inconclusive results. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sterile swabs should be used for sample collection to preserve specimen integrity and to assure patient safety as well.
Standard protocol for COVID-19 testing requires samples to be collected via the nasopharyngeal route as recommended by the CDC. Additionally, swabs containing materials that can inactivate some viruses shouldn’t be used because these can inhibit molecular tests and result in inconclusive results.
Hence, swabs with wooden shafts and swabs containing calcium alginate should not be used for COVID-19 testing. Only synthetic fiber swabs with thin plastics or wire swabs that have been specifically designed for collecting samples from the nasopharyngeal mucosa are recommended by the CDC.
Standard Requirements for COVID-19 Testing Sites in Memphis & Germantown, TN
All COVID-19 testing sites must meet certain minimum standards set out by the government and regulatory authorities. Some of these standards include evidence of implementation of a quality management system that demonstrates their ability to produce accurate laboratory test results.
Additionally, COVID-19 testing sites should make provisions for safety. They should also put processes in place for infection prevention and control precautions when collecting samples for COVID-19 tests and while performing diagnostic testing.
Furthermore, testing procedures must comply with standard procedures designed by regulatory authorities such as the CDC. At Rapid Care, our test performance follows the highest standards for accurate results.
We offer different kinds of COVID-19 tests, such as the Dual Flu and COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test, COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test, COVID-19 Rapid Antibody (IgG/IgM) Test, and COVID-19 RT-PCR Test for business, travel, holidays, and vacations. By following the standards and protocol laid out above, you can feel confident in the accuracy of your results.
At Rapid Care Testing, we follow the latest standard guidelines for COVID-19 testing in Memphis and Germantown, TN, and we make the testing experience hassle-free. Schedule an appointment for your COVID-19 testing, and we will be happy to receive you!
