Dexcon Global

Stay Connected:

Facebook-f Instagram Linkedin-in
dexcon_logo_2020-02
Menu
SIGN IN
dexcon_logo_2020-02
SIGN IN

What to Expect When Getting a Rapid Antigen Test

Rapid antigen tests have played a crucial role in Australia and the world’s battle against the dreaded SARS-CoV-2 virus infection that causes COVID-19. Rapid antigen tests have provided the general public with an affordable and convenient way to test themselves, determine if they are infected with the virus and prevent others from being exposed to possible infection.

Presently, rapid antigen tests are available in several versions. However, the most widely used is the COVID-19 antigen saliva test kit. Many individuals and companies prefer this over the other available variants because rapid antigen tests that use saliva are user-friendly and can provide results within minutes.

How to Use a COVID-19 Antigen Saliva Test Kit?

The COVID-19 antigen saliva test kit has become a famous test used to determine whether a person is infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This is because these rapid antigen tests are self-administered, meaning you can do them independently. Also, these tests are more comfortable, and they also provide accurate results.

The rapid antigen tests that use saliva are typically accomplished using the following steps:

  1. Avoid eating, drinking and brushing your teeth 30 minutes before taking the test.
  2. Wash your hands thoroughly. Ensure that both of these are very clean by sanitising them.
  3. Open one of the saliva rapid antigen tests. Pull out the tube and the mouthpiece and have them properly connected.
  4. Do about 3 to 5 coughs with the mouthpiece positioned near the mouth.
  5. Spit into the mouthpiece. Check the instructions included on the rapid antigen tests kits to determine the correct amount of spit needed for the test.
  6. When finished, take the mouthpiece off the tube.
  7. Pour the liquid included in the test kit into the tube by squeezing its packaging 10 times.
  8. Put the tube’s cap. Place 2 to 3 drops of the sample into the designated spot in the test cartridge.
  9. Wait for 10 to 20 minutes to obtain the result.

What Does a False Positive Rapid Antigen Test Result for COVID-19 Mean?

A false positive result means the test has detected the virus in a person who does not have it. This can happen if a person has been exposed to the virus but is not yet sick or has a similar virus like flu.

Whilst a false positive result can be concerning, it is essential to remember that these tests are inaccurate and that further testing, such as a PCR test, will be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

What Does a False Negative Rapid Antigen Test Result for COVID-19 Mean?

A false negative on a rapid antigen test for COVID-19 means that the test has found no signs of the virus, even though the person taking the test may actually be infected. This can happen if the person is in the early stages of infection or has a low level of the virus in their body. Either way, it’s important to remember that a negative result on a rapid antigen test does not necessarily mean that a person is not infected with COVID-19. If you have any virus symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive, you should get a PCR test to confirm your status.

Where to Get Rapid Antigen Tests?

Rapid antigen tests continue to gain acceptance as an excellent way to detect COVID-19 infections. Due to this, many businesses decided to engage in selling rapid antigen tests. As a result, the supply of rapid antigen tests in the market has increased significantly, and searching for reliable variants has become more challenging.

So, if you are planning to buy the rapid antigen tests that you can use, it is best to consider the following sources.

As more and more people are looking to get rapid antigen tests, pharmacies are increasingly becoming a reliable source for these tests. Many pharmacies now offer rapid antigen tests, which can be a convenient option for those who want to get tested quickly and easily.

If you’re considering getting rapid antigen tests, check our guide to learn more about how these tests work and what to expect.

Sourcing rapid antigen tests from online sellers is also a popular option for those who need them. However, buying the tests from these suppliers requires utmost caution. You must ensure that you are dealing with a legitimate seller capable of supplying you with reliable test kits.

For best results, look closely at the online seller’s website and check the feedback they received from their previous clients. You also need to check their website to assess if they are credible. Go for the sellers with established customer care procedures and those that provide applicable warranties along with the products they are selling.

Dexcon | Leading Medical PPE Supplier in Australia

Rapid antigen tests have provided the general public with a convenient and affordable way to contribute to preventing the spread of COVID-19. However, it is also important for you to understand some of the essential aspects of the rapid antigen tests so they’ll be able to get the most out of using them.

If you are looking for reliable test kits and other medical device supplies, contact us and discuss your needs. It is necessary to ensure that you use reliable test kits sourced from reliable suppliers like us at Dexcon to avoid inaccurate results.