Antigen PCR testing
Last updated: 12 October 2022 at 17:59
The antigen PCR test:
- Tests for the presence of the virus in a patient
- Has an optimal testing window of between 2 days prior to symptom onset and 7 days after
- Can be carried out using nose swabs, throat swabs or saliva
Positive results
Continue PPE use and follow Trust policies in terms of patient pathway, if admitted.
A positive result does not tell you how ill the patient will become, or when they contracted the virus.
Negative
The test is only 75% accurate - symptomatic patients with a high suspicion of infection should be re-tested 2 to 3 days later.
If there is a high suspicion of COVID-19 and a repeat PCR is negative, an antibody test could be considered.
Requesting a test
Tests for patients can be requested through microbiology.
Related pages
Inpatient testing protocolInpatient testing protocol for coronavirus (COVID-19).Sampling for coronavirusSampling protocol for coronavirus (COVID-19).Staff testingGuidance on testing staff with COVID-19 related symptoms.