COVID TESTING INSTRUCTIONS

 

 

Be sure you have given the correct e-mail and phone number.  We cannot call you for treatment or e-mail  work excuses if not correct. If not correct, text your name, birthdate and corrections to 256-741-1339

 

Which type of test?—almost no false positives with any

            Antigen-takes 10-15 min to run, roughly 88% sensitivity

Molecular 20 min to run, roughly 92% sensitivity

PCR-1-4 days to run- roughly 95% sensitivity

If done for travel or work, be SURE of the type of test required..

 

After your specimen is collected, you may leave if not seeking in-office treatment, but if testing is done for symptoms or exposure, you MUST quarantine until released by a provider.  Calls will most likely come from 256 741-1339 (Anniston) or 256 831-0076 (Oxford).  Keep your phone handy and answer it.   Providers may be able to call only once.  Your work excuse and results can be e-mailed to you.

 

 

What constitutes a significant exposure?

5 minutes at less than 6 feet distance from a person with covid (their contagious period 2 days before symptoms to 10 days after symptoms

 

 

While in your quarantine period, Drink plenty of fluids, eat, and stay in a separately ventilated room (open window if practical).  Mask and others mask  when in same room.  Use a separate bathroom. Wash hands after coughing, sneezing, nose blowing and before eating.  Normal doses of vitamin d and minerals.   Your doctor may recommend other prescription medications or inhalers.  If you feel wheezy, severe coughing or are getting worse, measure your oxygen level with a pulse oximeter and let your doctor know.

 

What about vaccination?

Vaccines protect against severe disease, are safer than your risk of COVID, with no infertility.  Get one when quarantine is over.

 

When to seek emergency medical attention.

• Trouble breathing
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion
• Inability to wake or stay awake
• Bluish lips or face
• Repeated oxygen saturation less than 92% or a drop of more than 4% from your baseline level.
• Inability to drink adequate fluids