: COVID-19 Test (Specific Test Not Identified by Slug)
: This slug appears to describe a student during the COVID-19 outbreak, but it does not identify a specific laboratory test, specimen, or method. The information below is therefore a general guide to COVID-19 testing.
[": The correct test name and interpretation depend on the specimen, test method, and laboratory report."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 97116-8
- Short code
- STUDENTDURINGTHECOVID19OUTBREAK
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 3.5
- Ref high
- 5
- Critical range
- 2.5 N/A – 6.5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84132
- SNOMED
- 110742001
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
: What the test can detect
: A COVID-19 laboratory test may detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus or evidence of an immune response to infection. The exact target and test type cannot be determined from this slug.
: Common specimens
: Depending on the laboratory, testing may use a nasal or throat swab, saliva, or blood. The specimen is usually listed on the test order and laboratory report.
: What the result means
: A positive result generally indicates that the test target was detected, while a negative result means it was not detected at the time of testing. Interpretation should consider symptoms, exposure, timing, and the type of test.
: Types of COVID-19 tests
: Molecular tests generally detect viral genetic material and may be called PCR or NAAT tests. Antigen tests detect viral proteins, while antibody tests detect the immune response to the virus.
Reference range
Adult: 3.5-5.0 mmol/LN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: Clinical significance: COVID-19 test results may help guide isolation, treatment, and exposure management, but they should be reviewed with a healthcare professional because test performance varies by test type, specimen quality, timing, and individual factors. Seek urgent medical care for severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, or bluish or gray lips or skin.
Short name
: COVID-19 testing
Frequently asked questions
: What does the slug identify?
: Can I use the result to decide whether to isolate?
: Why might a negative result not rule out COVID-19?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy