Urgent Care Covid Testing

How to Choose the Right COVID-19 Testing Provider

The world is improving at managing the spread of the COVID-19 virus. However, testing remains a crucial tool in controlling the virus’s spread. With several types of COVID-19 tests available, understanding which test is most suitable for your situation and choosing the right provider can be confusing.

Read on to find out the right way to find a COVID-19 test provider.

Different Types of COVID-19 Tests

COVID-19 testing falls into two main categories: diagnostic tests and antibody tests. The kind of test you should take will depend on your specific needs and other factors that we’ll cover later on.

Diagnostic Tests

Diagnostic tests, including RT-PCR and antigen tests, detect if you currently have the virus by checking a body fluid sample. Typically, the fluid your healthcare provider will test will be either:

  • Mucus from a nasal swab
  • Fluid from a throat swab
  • Saliva

There are two types of diagnostic tests: RT-PCR and antigen.

RT-PCR tests are often considered the gold standard due to their high accuracy. Antigen tests, often called rapid tests, can provide results quickly but may not be as accurate. Your doctor may recommend that you take an RT-PCR test even if you’ve already taken an antigen test.

Antibody Tests

Antibody tests determine if you’ve had the virus in the past by detecting antibodies your body may have produced in response to the infection.

As the name suggests, antibody tests check if you have antibodies against COVID-19 in your system. This test does not check whether you are currently infected. A positive result on an antibody test could mean a few different things, such as:

  • You have been infected with COVID-19 before but might not have it now.
  • You have received a vaccination against COVID-19.
  • You have had COVID-19 for a few weeks already.

An antibody test may appear negative if you have been recently infected with COVID-19 but are still early in the infection stage. Getting a test too early will mean your body has not yet developed antibodies.

The type of test you need will depend on several factors, such as whether you have symptoms, have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, or require testing for travel purposes.

What to Consider When Choosing a Test Provider

Choosing the right COVID-19 testing provider involves considering many different things. When choosing a COVID-19 test provider, consider the following factors:

  • Reliability: Ensure that the provider offers FDA-approved or authorized tests. These tests meet specific performance standards and provide more reliable results.
  • Accessibility: Consider the testing site’s location, its operation hours, and how long you might have to wait. Some providers offer drive-through testing, which may be more convenient if you have mobility issues or prefer to stay in your vehicle.
  • Turnaround Time: Check how long it takes to receive results. While rapid tests can provide results within minutes, PCR test results could take up to a few days.
  • Costs and Insurance: Understand the costs associated with testing. Some sites offer free testing, while others may charge. If you have health insurance, check if it covers COVID-19 testing.
  • Convenience: Consider the convenience of home tests versus in-person testing sites. A home testing kit will mean that you’ll collect the sample yourself. Once you’ve gotten a sample, you’ll send it to a testing lab. Some home kits will have the equipment to provide the test result at home.

Questions to Ask Potential Providers

Good healthcare providers should be able to answer any questions you might have about COVID-19 testing.

Here are general questions that you’ll want to ask:

  • How long will the test take?
  • Who should I contact about my results?
  • When can I ask about my results?
  • What safety measures are in place at the testing site?
  • If opting for a home test, what steps should I follow to ensure an accurate result?

You’re not limited to these questions. Don’t hesitate to ask any other questions you might have! Collaborating with your doctor is essential to maintaining good health.

Urgent Care COVID-19 Testing in King, NC

Choosing the right COVID-19 test provider is essential in protecting yourself and your community from the virus. There are many things you’ll need to consider when it comes to finding the right COVID testing provider, so it’s best to stay informed. We encourage you to share this information with your friends and family to help them understand how to choose a COVID-19 test provider.

If you need urgent COVID-19 testing in King, NC, visit Cardinal Urgent Care. Our providers have extensive experience providing urgent care, including safe and reliable COVID-19testing. Remember, getting tested when needed is a responsibility we all share in the fight against COVID-19. Stay safe and stay informed!

You can contact us by calling (336) 983-9111. Alternatively, you can directly request an appointment online.

Who Can Benefit from COVIDTesting in King, NC?

Are you concerned about the spread of COVID-19 and want to know if you need to get tested? Testing is a key component in helping us protect ourselves, our families, friends, and communities, and preventing further transmission of the virus. Understanding who can benefit most from covid testing is essential for any decision related to fighting this pandemic together.

Let’s talk about who can benefit from covid testing and where you can go for a COVID-19 test in King, NC.

Understanding the Different Types of COVID-19 Tests

COVID-19 has affected the world in countless ways. As such, several types of COVID-19 tests have been developed to help diagnose those who have been infected. It is important to understand the differences between these tests to help determine the best course of action for slowing the spread of the virus. Some tests, such as PCR tests, are highly accurate but may take several days to return results. Other tests, such as the antigen test, can provide results in as little as 15 minutes but may have lower accuracy rates.

Who is Most at Risk for Serious Illness from COVID-19?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), older adults, especially those over the age of 65, and people with underlying medical conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes are at higher risk of developing complications from COVID-19. In addition, individuals with weakened immune systems or those who are pregnant may also have a higher risk of serious illness. It is important for everyone to take precautions to protect themselves and those around them, especially those who may be at higher risk.

Testing for Long-Term Care Facilities and Nursing Homes

With the elderly and those with underlying health conditions at a heightened risk for severe illness or even death from COVID-19, it is crucial that long-term care facilities and nursing homes have efficient and effective testing protocols in place. We must prioritize the health and safety of our most vulnerable populations. By investing in testing and other preventative measures, we can help to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and keep our loved ones safe.

Expanded Testing for Group Living Settings and Homeless Shelters

To better protect vulnerable populations, expanded testing efforts have been implemented to ensure that the virus does not spread undetected in these environments. This means that individuals in these settings can receive regular testing, which helps identify cases early on and allows for prompt and effective isolation and treatment. By prioritizing testing in group living settings and homeless shelters, we can work towards a safer and healthier future for everyone.

Testing Before Traveling to Restart Business Activity and Reopen Schools

While testing is just one layer of protection against the spread of the virus, it is especially true for businesses and schools looking to restart their operations. By ensuring that individuals are tested and cleared before entering a workspace or classroom, we can mitigate the risk of transmission and get back to some sense of normalcy.

COVID Testing in King, NC

COVID testing is quick, easy, and can provide you with the peace of mind to stay healthy, happy, and safe. So, if you need a COVID test, please do not hesitate to visit us at Cardinal Urgent Care. Our services include quick COVID-19 tests, as well as prompt tests for flu, strep, and mono. With accurate diagnoses, we can provide you with the appropriate treatment to help you recover quickly.

We are open from 8 AM to 8 PM on weekdays and 9 am to 5 pm on weekends. Additionally, you can schedule an appointment by calling us at (336) 983-9111 or through our online scheduler. We are committed to helping you feel your best, and we look forward to serving you.

The Most Common Urgent Care Procedures Explained

Accidents can happen at any time and in any place. No one looks forward to it, but in these situations, urgent care clinics exist to provide convenient medical care. They aim to bridge the gap between emergency room visits and typical primary care. If you have never been to an urgent care facility before, you might not be sure what to expect at an urgent care facility.

Let’s talk about some of the most common urgent care procedures and where you can find the best urgent care center in Stokes County, NC.

Minor Wound Care

Sometimes you might just shrug off cuts, scrapes, and burns as things that happen in your daily life. However, it’s important to remember that any break in the skin can lead to infection.

Depending on your health and other factors, even a minor skin infection could turn into something serious or life-threatening if ignored.

Healthcare providers in urgent care clinics address a variety of minor skin injuries, including cuts, scratches, and burns. They will clean and dress your wound, prescribe medication to prevent infection or manage any pain you might be feeling.

Cuts

When dealing with minor cuts, it’s important to keep the wound clean, sterilized, and bandaged. In some cases, medication may be necessary to prevent infection or ease pain.

Scratches

Scratches are like mild cuts that may not always bleed. It’s important to clean and dress the wound and consider using an antibiotic ointment to avoid infection.

Burns

For minor burns, over-the-counter gels or creams can be used after cleaning the skin. However, chemical, electrical, or severe burns may require advanced medical attention to ensure there is no internal damage.

More Serious Cuts

Sutures can help more serious cuts heal faster by holding the edges of the skin together. However, whether or not you need them will depend on various factors, such as:

  • The size and location of the injury
  • The amount of bleeding
  • Your overall health

If you’re unsure whether your injury requires stitches, it’s best to consult a medical professional. When deemed necessary, a local anesthetic will be used to numb the affected area before the sutures are threaded.

Some stitches dissolve on their own, while others will need to be removed at a follow-up appointment.

Digital X-Ray Imaging

At times, identifying the cause of your symptoms may require more than just a history and physical examination. High-quality imaging services are thus helpful in understanding what is going on inside the body.

Digital X-rays are now essential in diagnosing an array of illnesses and injuries unseen by the naked eye. Examples include:

  • Broken bones
  • Respiratory infections
  • Foreign objects lodged inside the body

Digital X-rays use only low doses of radiation to produce detailed images of the inside of your body. They are also quick, painless, and non-invasive.

Urgent care clinics often have board-certified radiologists who can review the images within 30 minutes. This ensures you get expert findings as soon as possible.

Earwax Removal

Earwax, or cerumen, is a natural substance that cleans and protects the ear canal. Sometimes, it can build up and cause the following:

  • Ear fullness
  • A blocked sensation
  • Diminished hearing

Your healthcare provider can use a special tool called an otoscope to take a look inside your ear canals.

If they discover too much earwax, they can safely remove it. They may flush the wax out with warm water or remove it using gentle suction.

They may apply ear wax softening drops before irrigation to make the removal process easier.  Their cleaning technique is highly effective in helping you regain your sense of hearing in the affected ear.

Intravenous (IV) Fluid Administration

IV therapy is a quick and effective way to deliver fluids, blood, or medication directly into the body through the veins. It is particularly useful for patients who need immediate drug or fluid delivery.

You may need IV fluid administration due to:

  • Dehydration
  • Excessive vomiting and diarrhea
  • Infection that requires IV antibiotic therapy

Determining the suitable amount and type of IV fluids and the ideal rate of administration can be difficult. Providers in urgent care centers have the expertise to give suitable health recommendations and care.

Splinting and Partial Casting

For non-life-threatening conditions involving broken bones or sprains, help is available. Casts and splints are commonly used to immobilize the injured limb and promote healing.

Initially, splints are preferred due to swelling, which can be later replaced with a cast once the swelling goes down.

Casts are made from plaster or fiber glass and provide more support than splints. On the other hand, splints are easier and faster to use but provide less support.

Urgent Care in Stokes County, NC

Cardinal Urgent Care’s state-of-the-art facility is ready to serve your healthcare needs seven days a week. Our team— led by board-certified emergency room physician Dr. Samir Patel—values the convenience, time, health, and overall experience of the people in the community we are privileged to serve. As such, we strive to provide comprehensive, highly efficient,compassionate care, so our patients can quickly get back to doing the things they love to do.

No appointment is needed – just walk in. For more information on our services, please call our friendly team at (336) 983-9111.

Reasons to Get COVID Testing After the Pandemic

As the world slowly returns to normalcy, many wonder what the future holds. One certain thing is that COVID-19 will still be a major health concern for the foreseeable future. This means getting tested for COVID-19 even after the pandemic can be beneficial.

Let’s talk about why you should get tested for COVID and where you can go for a COVID test in King, NC.

You Have Mild Symptoms of COVID-19

Even if you are experiencing mild symptoms, getting tested for COVID-19 is vital. Fever, cough, and fatigue may seem minor, but they could be warning signs of the virus.

Being infected can cause severe illnesses in vulnerable individuals. Remember, SARS-CoV-2 can be transmitted before symptoms even appear.

Post-COVID or Long Covid Conditions

Post-COVID conditions refer to health issues that can emerge or persist following a COVID infection.

While many individuals recover within a few days or weeks after infection, some may experience symptoms.

You may develop a new set of conditions following the initial encounter with the virus. Most individuals who develop these symptoms do so shortly after being diagnosed with COVID. However, some people may not realize when they were initially infected.

Your new symptoms may be falsely attributed to other causes without getting tested.

Post-Intensive Care Syndrome

People who suffer from severe illness, hospitalization, or treatment may develop health problems such as post-intensive care syndrome (PICS).

PICS are health effects that may arise during a stay in an intensive care unit (ICU). These effects may continue even after they return home and can include:

  • Muscle weakness
  • Cognitive difficulties
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or a long-term reaction to a very stressful event

While PICS is not exclusive to SARS-CoV-2, it may still occur and contribute to post-COVID conditions. Individuals who experience PICS after COVID-19 don’t know if it’s due to a severe illness, the virus, or both.

Prevention is one reason for getting tested. Another is to keep a detailed medical history record, ensuring everything is noticed.

This will invariably help healthcare professionals understand your situation better, whether at present or for future consultations.

For the Prevention of Future Outbreaks

While vaccines are highly effective, getting tested for COVID-19 post-pandemic can help identify potential new variants that may be spreading. This can help prevent future outbreaks and protect yourself and those around you.

The importance of early detection cannot be overstated when it comes to COVID-19.

Testing promotes the identification of cases and exposure, helping people take necessary precautions to limit the spread of the virus. It also ensures that those infected receive the appropriate treatment as early as possible, leading to better health outcomes.

For Early Treatment

Early detection through COVID testing can lead to earlier treatment, which can improve your chances of a full recovery.

Testing may also lead to further evaluation, identifying underlying health conditions that make you more susceptible to severe illness.

With early treatment, you can help prevent the sustained transmission of the virus in your area. It enables taking appropriate measures to avoid infecting people, particularly vulnerable populations, such as the following:

  • Children
  • The elderly
  • Immuno compromised individuals
  • People with comorbidities

Responsible behavior can go a long way and even save lives.

As Part of Travel Requirements

Travel is a crucial reason for COVID-19 testing. On December 30, 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an order.

They require air passengers traveling to the United States from China, Hong Kong, or Macau to provide negative COVID-19 tests. This test must have been taken no more than two days before their flight.

Passengers who have recovered from COVID-19 in the past 90 days can also provide documentation to meet this requirement. This measure aims to prevent the spread of COVID-19 across borders and reduce the risk of transmission.

By requiring tests and documentation, the CDC ensures the safety of travelers and prevents the further spread of the virus.

Some might think that COVID-19 testing is less important than before. However, you are doing the community a huge favor by getting tested.

If you carry the virus, you help prevent its spread, protect vulnerable populations, and enable yourself to receive treatment.

COVID Testing in King, NC

COVID testing is quick, easy, and can provide you with the peace of mind to stay healthy, happy, and safe. So, if you need a COVID test, please don’t hesitate to visit us at Cardinal Urgent Care. Our services include quick COVID-19 tests, as well as prompt tests for flu, strep, and mono. With accurate diagnoses, we can provide you with the appropriate treatment to help you recover quickly.

We are open from 8 AM to 8 PM on weekdays and 9 am to 5 pm on weekends. Additionally, you can schedule an appointment by calling (336) 983-9111 or through our online scheduler. We are committed to helping you feel your best, and we look forward to serving you.

Why Go to an Urgent Care for Covid Testing?

Urgent care centers have quickly become the go-to healthcare solution for getting a fast checkup, quick treatment, and overall convenient healthcare for the whole family. During this time of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) pandemic, people have also sought out special testing for the virus.

At an urgent care center, you can walk in and get care without an appointment – and at many walk-in clinics like these, you can also be tested for Covid. Let’s talk about some of the main reasons why an urgent care clinic is your best option for getting tested for the novel coronavirus, and where you can go in King, North Carolina, to get heathcare for anyone in your family today.

Why Choose an Urgent Care Clinic to Be Tested for Covid?

There are many reasons to opt for COVID-19 testing at an urgent care center, including the following:

Fast Test Results

If you want to safely visit family, to protect others at home or work, or to fulfill a Covid test requirement that is necessary to participate in an event, you can get fast COVID-19 test results from an urgent care center. Because these walk-in clinics offer significantly shorter wait times overall, you will enjoy fast testing and fast results – which can be produced in as little as 15 minutes after the test is performed.

Minimally Invasive Testing

A rapid Covid test is a simple process in itself: You will give a mucus sample from your nose or throat. Rather than from the deep nasal cavity, a sample can be taken at the mid-nose point, causing less discomfort.

No Appointment Necessary

You can walk right into an urgent care center for relatively fast Covid testing, whether you think you may have contracted the conronavirus or you want the test for another reason. At an urgent care clinic, you’ll be seen by a healthcare provider within minutes after walking in.

This is how an urgent care clinic provides the perfect intermediate solution between an emergency room and the doctor’s office. You can be seen and treated without an appointment at an emergency room, but it has a triage system (which prioritizes more serious cases first) and usually costs quite a bit more; and you almost always need to make an appointment before you can see your doctor, you cannot simply walk in and see the physician.

An urgent care treats nonemergency cases, so there is no triage system – it’s first-come-first-served. Costs are kept low by offering basic yet important healthcare services, such as Covid testing and immunizations.

Convenient Hours

Most urgent care centers offer healthcare services 7 days a week with extended hours. This makes it easier for you to receive Covid diagnostic testing services within your schedule.

Urgent Care Covid Testing in King, NC

If you are having symptoms of COVID-19, think that you might have been exposed to the novel coronavirus, or want to be tested for Covid for another reason, come in and have a rapid Covid test at Cardinal Urgent Care. We will take a simple nasal swab to identify or rule out the presence of COVID-19 in your system.

If you are tested positive, our skilled staff will guide you on caring for yourself, protecting others, and taking medications. Cardinal Urgent Care is open 7 days a week, including many holidays.

To get yourself tested for Covid, simply walk in during our regular business hours, or set up an appointment. If you have any questions, call us today at (336) 983-9111. We look forward to serving you!