COVID-19 Testing at NIHD
Symptomatic Testing
According to the CDC, people with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.
People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:
- Fever or Chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, please call the Rural Health Clinic at 760-873-2849. The admissions clerk will assist you in scheduling your test and advise you on how to prepare for the test.
When To Seek Emergency Medical Attention
Look for emergency warning signs* for COVID-19. If someone 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
- Bluish Lips or Face
*This list is not all possible symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you. Reference: CDC
Asymptomatic Testing
Testing is done routinely on asymptomatic patients scheduled for procedures or surgery as part of pre-admission process. All patients who are hospitalized at Northern Inyo Hospital are tested, even if they do not display COVID-19 symptoms.
Please follow the procedure below if you are scheduled for a surgery or procedure:
- Call 760-873-5811 or 760-873-2155 (Diagnostic Lab) to schedule your appointment to receive your COVID-19 test.
- The drive-thru testing is available Monday-Friday from 8 – 10:45am
- Testing should be conducted no more than 5 days before your procedure, but less than 3 days.