Pre-Op COVID-19 Testing Instructions
Please enter the North Parking Lot and proceed to the large maintenance building in the northeast corner. Pull up so that the driver side of your vehicle is on the side closest to the building. REMAIN IN YOUR VEHICLE AT ALL TIMES. Staff will come to your vehicle to perform the test.
How does St. Margaret’s test for COVID-19?
- St. Margaret’s Hospital uses a nasopharyngeal swab to test for COVID-19. You will be asked to put a mask on to cover your mouth during the testing. You will be instructed to tilt your head back slightly and rest it against your seat’s head rest. Staff will carefully insert a flexible swab (like a Q-tip) into your nostril and back to your nasal pharynx passage, twirl it, remove it and then repeat the process on the opposite nostril.
- The swabbing can be mildly uncomfortable, but should not be painful. It is normal to experience watering eyes and cough when the swab is removed.
- The swab is then sent to a lab for processing. Results take 48-36 hours and will be reported to your physician prior to your surgery. If your test result comes back positive, your physician will contact you with further instructions.
What do I need to do after I have been tested?
- It is of the utmost importance that after you are tested you go directly home and self-isolate until the day of your surgery.
- Limit your contact with individuals in your home. Stay in a separate bedroom and use a separate bathroom, if possible.
- Do not leave your home unless it is to receive medical attention.
- Do not have visitors over.
- Do not work, go to school or go to public places (i.e. grocery stores, pharmacies, etc.)
- If you need essential items during this time, please arrange for someone who is not in self-isolation to obtain these items for you and have them dropped at your door to minimize contact.
- If you must have contact with others during this time, maintain at least 6 feet of distance from them.
- Practice frequent hand-washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains greater than 60% alcohol.
If you need to change your appointment time, please contact your physician’s office as soon as possible.
Please note that testing needs to be completed a minimum of 36 hours prior to your surgery to ensure results are available prior to your surgery. Failure to have the test performed in time may result in delay of your surgery and/or cancellation.