Are you experiencing signs of COVID-19? Do you think you need a COVID-19 test? AS COVID-19 continues to impact our community, you or a loved one might be wondering where to go for care.
This blog features common questions and answers to help you understand what to do if you feel sick and where to find a COVID-19 test.
Question:
Where Can I Get a COVID-19 Test?
Answer:
If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, first, contact your primary care office. A medical office staff member will discuss your symptoms and give you a time to arrive at the clinic for testing. Do not go to the emergency department for a COVID-19 testing unless you are experiencing emergency warning signs of COVID-19.
Question:
When Should I Seek Medical Attention at the Emergency Department for COVID-19?
Look for emergency warning signs for COVID-19. If you or someone you know is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds, depending on skin tone
- It’s important to note this list does not describe all possible symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.
- Call 911 or call ahead to your local emergency facility.
- Notify the operator that you are seeking care for someone who has or may have COVID-19.
Question:
What Else Should I Do if I Feel Sick?
Answer:
If you think you have COVID-19:
- Do not share personal household items
- Do not share dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, or bedding with other people in your home.
- Wash these items thoroughly after using them with soap and water or put dishes in the dishwasher.
- Clean all “high-touch” surfaces every day, including countertops and your smartphone.
“Riverside also has a COVID-19 Assessment Tool, which you can use to evaluate your symptoms before contacting your primary care doctor,” says a Scott Hines, M.D., board-certified emergency medicine physician. You can find Riverside’s free assessment tool here.
As always, Riverside is prepared to help you navigate all types of health concerns, including COVID-19.
