Rapid PCR Testing: Things You Need to Know Before Booking an Appointment

Posted by Complete Family Wellness on February 23rd, 2021

Are you looking for PCR rapid test near me? Before you go ahead and book an appointment, you need to know more about the PCR test. Here we have a brief on the process so that you can go for the test prepared.

What do you understand by RT-PCR testing?

RT-PCR testing for COVID-19 is nothing but  Real-time Reverse Transcription- Polymerase Chain Reaction test. The process involves the collection of respiratory tract specimens like sputum, nasopharyngeal specimen, and swab, with long cotton bud. It has to be under full observation of healthcare personnel. You can use a self-collection kit but for commercial approval, you must take the test under medical observation for safety.

In this test, the RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) or a genetic material of the Coronavirus is extracted and analyzed for SARS-COV-2 genetic sequence. One must remember that the rest yields proper results only when the collection went properly.

Before you consider going for an RT-PCR test, you need to understand that the RNA extraction process needs trained professionals, advanced laboratory, and RNA extracting machinery. Hence, the process is a bit expensive one as compared to other COVID tests. Even the fastest PCR testing laboratories takes a minimum of 4-hours to provide you with a report.

Documents one should carry for an RT-PCR test

If you are willing to undergo go an RT-PCR test, you need to take it as per the Government guideline, as per Government directives, one needs to carry these set of documents to the clinic or hospital to get a COVID test done under the Real-time PCR testing method-

  • A prescription from a qualified medical practitioner recommending the COVID-19 test
  • Valid Government Photo ID proof of the person to take the test
  • A duly filled form for Specimen Referral

Every Government requires you go to undergo the test from the list of ICMR authorized laboratories only.

Is RT-PCR Test accurate?

Medical practitioners suggest RT-PCR test over other forms of COVID testing like the antibody or antigen testing because of its accuracy. The process is said to be more accurate and effective as it involves analyzing the genetic sequence of a Virus by RNA extraction like that of SARS-COV-2, for its result determining. However, no health can categorize the test to be 100% perfect or accurate. There is always a possibility of getting a false-negative report in samples because of insufficient collection of samples from the patients or even laboratory error. The labs can also end up using faulty reagents.

Hence, when you choose to undergo an RT-PCR test, it must be always from an ICMR-approved laboratory that follow strict Government guidelines for quality maintenance. Any lab maintaining quality kits and reagents deliver accurate results.

Conclusion

You can undergo an RT-PCR test if you are showing symptoms of COVID-19 like, persistent cough, cold, loss of smell or taste, etc. However, you need to ensure that you have chosen the right clinic for the test. Also, if you have persistent symptoms and a negative report, you should go for a second test to eliminate all chances of the disease.

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Complete Family Wellness
Joined: February 23rd, 2021
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