Covid-19 Testing for Families of Pediatric Patients

COVID Testing Update - 10/25/2021
UR Medicine Golisano Children’s Hospital Launches New Center to Help with Pediatric COVID-19 Testing

Some patients will need testing for Covid-19 virus even if they do not have any symptoms of infection. Some patients who are infected with virus do not have any symptoms, but they can spread the virus to other people. The risk of spread is higher under certain circumstances or with some medical procedures. It is important to know if a patient has active virus before starting a procedure to help maintain a safe environment for providing medical care. Based on recent Rochester community testing results we know that about 2% of people with no symptoms are positive for Covid-19 virus.

Who needs “asymptomatic” testing for Covid-19?

• Any patient having surgery
• Any patient getting deep sedation for medical procedures
• Any patient where the test or treatment will generate lots of air flow from the mouth or nose

There are other circumstances, but these are the most common.

How is the testing done?

A specially trained technician will pass a small flexible swab deep into the nose. It is not a blood test. It is safe, but not much fun!

When does the testing need to be done?

The testing needs to be done 48 – 72 hours before the medical procedure.

Where will the testing be done?

There are a number of URMC testing sites in the area.

• There is a special dedicated URMC Covid-19 testing site at 1520 Monroe Avenue in Rochester.
• URMC Urgent Care centers can also do this testing.

Your medical team can make other arrangements for testing if you cannot get to one of these sites. They can provide you with the address of the best testing location for you.

Who will tell me the test results?

Your medical team can tell you the results. The test typically takes 24-48 hours from the time the swab is made to when the information is available to your medical team.

What happens if we do not get the test done before the scheduled procedure?

Unfortunately the procedure will be canceled and need to be rescheduled.

What happens if my child tests positive for Covid-19?

Unless it is a medical emergency the procedure will be postponed until further medical evaluation is done. A positive test does not necessarily mean that your child will become ill with Covid-19 disease. Your medical team with work with your child’s primary care doctor to carefully evaluate your child.