Types of COVID-19 Tests
The sample may be taken using one of three methods – nasal, throat or nasopharyngeal swab. This testing can be temporarily uncomfortable for some individuals, but we will take all necessary steps to ensure comfort for those being tested.
- Nasal Swab – A healthcare professional inserts a thin, flexible stick with cotton at the tip into your nose to collect a sample of mucus. Swabbing may occur in both nostrils to collect enough mucus for the test. The swab remains in place briefly before being gently rotated as it’s pulled out. The sample gets sealed in a tube and sent to a lab for analysis.
- Throat Swab – A healthcare professional brushes a thin, flexible stick with cotton at the tip along the back of your throat to collect a sample of mucus. The sample gets sealed in a tube and sent to a lab for analysis.
- Nasopharyngeal Swab – A healthcare professional inserts a thin, flexible stick with cotton into the nostril. The swab should reach a depth equal to the distance from the nostrils to the outer opening of the ear. The swab will remain in place for several seconds to absorb secretions. Then the swab is slowly removed while rotated. The sample gets sealed in a tube and sent to a lab for analysis.
To view the latest COVID-19 Test Results, visit the SpiriTrustLutheran website.
COVID-19 Test ResultsCOVID-19 Testing FAQ
How are you going to test my loved one?
The sample may be taken using one of three methods – nasal, throat or nasopharyngeal swab. This testing can be temporarily uncomfortable for some individuals, but we will take all necessary steps to ensure comfort for those being tested.
How long will it take for my loved one's test result to be known?
The turnaround time to receive the COVID-19 test result is approximately 72 hours, depending on the lab and the volume of tests being analyzed.
How will I be notified of the test result for my loved one?
A SpiriTrust Lutheran® team member will call you once your test results have been released to us.
What happens if my loved one tests positive for COVID-19?
If your loved one tests positive for COVID-19, then he/she will be moved to a specific area in a SpiriTrust Lutheran community designated for COVID-19 positive residents. The area will be staffed by a care team dedicated to caring only for individuals residing in the designated area.
How long will my loved one be in the designated area after testing positive?
The time that your loved one spends there will be based upon your loved one’s needs, the time it takes to recover from COVID-19 and the results of any follow-up testing ordered by our medical director. Typically, individuals spend a minimum of two weeks in this area to ensure they are no longer contagious.
If my loved one or I refuse to have my loved one tested, what will happen?
If your loved one has been exposed to an individual who has tested positive for COVID-19, then he/she would be moved to another room for isolation purposes and we would ask that the resident and/or the family member to reconsider having the COVID-19 test performed, as ordered by our medical director. Your loved one would move back to his/her room when cleared by our medical director.
If my loved one tests negative for COVID-19, can he/she remain in his/her room?
We cannot guarantee that a move will not be necessary. The results of the testing may require us to cohort those who test positive. This may impact the room assignments of all residents. We will certainly keep you informed if this impacts your family member. Our goal is to not move any residents, unless absolutely necessary for their safety.
Are you testing all team members?
Yes, SpiriTrust Lutheran is testing all team members who work at any of our six life plan communities. It is important for you to know that we have a staffing contingency plan in place that ensures that we have an adequate number of team members to care for your loved one.
Repeat testing will be determined by our medical director. We will notify you of the need for repeat tests.
Will you let me know every time you test?
Yes, we will call you, if and when we repeat testing for any resident or team member.
Yes, you and your loved one will be able to communicate with each other using the current technology we have in place, including FaceTime, Skype, Zoom and other forms of videoconferencing. In-person visits and window visits will not be permitted.
Will personal items be moved to the designated area along with my loved one?
We will make every effort to move essential vital personal belongings to your loved one’s new room. Please understand that a move is a temporary stay and because there will be a limited number of staff permitted to enter the area, we may not be able to move all your loved one’s personal belongings. If we are not able to move your personal belongings, we will ensure their safekeeping.
Are there any additional costs, if my loved one is placed in the isolation area?
Any additional costs will be based on the specific care needs of the individual.
Who will pay for the cost of my loved one's test?
The lab will bill your loved one’s health insurance.
Where can I find the most current information on life plan community test results?
The most current information is posted on the SpiriTrustLutheran website.
COVID-19 Test Results