How Flu Tests Help Guide Care at Urgent Care Centers

When a patient arrives with cold or flu-like symptoms, it can be difficult to know what is causing the illness just by looking. That is where quick flu tests come in. These tests are used in urgent care clinics to find out if someone has the flu virus. Getting results fast helps the provider decide the best next step. For example, if the test shows the flu, the provider might suggest antiviral medicine instead of antibiotics. If it is not the flu, other causes can be considered. This helps avoid giving unnecessary medication and helps the patient recover with the right treatment. Using quick tests for flu can also reduce the need for other lab work or imaging. If you are feeling sick with a cough, fever, or body aches, it is suggested that you visit an urgent care facility for proper testing and care.

For more information about diagnostic services provided at an urgent care center, contact one of our doctors from . We provide several vaccinations for your immediate needs.

At an urgent care center comprehensive diagnostic services are offered, including X-ray imaging, ultrasound, and laboratory testing, to provide thorough and accurate healthcare assessments. The healthcare team is committed to delivering high-quality diagnostic services that aid in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of various medical conditions.

X-ray imaging, also known as radiography, uses electromagnetic radiation to create detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues within the body. X-rays are valuable for diagnosing fractures, joint injuries, lung conditions, and digestive issues. X-ray services at an urgent care facility include bone X-rays for fractures, joint injuries, and arthritis, and chest X-rays for lung conditions such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and lung cancer. Abdominal X-rays are taken to assess digestive issues and identify abnormalities, and dental X-rays are used for dental examinations and detecting oral health problems.

Ultrasound imaging, or sonography, utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of internal organs and structures. Ultrasound is safe, non-invasive, and commonly used in obstetrics, cardiology, and various medical specialties. Urgent care ultrasound services include obstetric ultrasound for prenatal care and monitoring fetal development, and abdominal ultrasound to assess organs such as the liver, kidneys, gallbladder, and pancreas. Cardiac ultrasound, or echocardiography, is used for evaluating heart function and detecting abnormalities, and vascular ultrasound can  assess blood flow and detect vascular conditions.

Laboratory testing plays an important role in diagnosing diseases, monitoring health indicators, and guiding treatment decisions. Laboratory services at an urgent care include a wide range of tests and analyses, such as: blood tests, urine tests, cultures and sensitivity testing for bacterial infections and tissue analysis for cancer diagnosis and staging.

There are various benefits of comprehensive diagnostic services including accurate diagnosis for effective treatment planning, timely intervention and early detection of health issues, and personalized care based on individual patient needs. Continuity of care is vital to ensure seamless coordination between imaging, testing, and healthcare interventions.

How long does it take to get results from diagnostic tests at urgent care? 

The time to receive test results varies, with some rapid tests providing results within minutes, while others, like blood tests, may take a few days. The staff will inform you about the expected timeline for your specific tests.

Can urgent care handle complex diagnostic tests?

Urgent care centers are equipped to handle many common diagnostic tests, but for more complex or specialized tests, they may refer you to a hospital or specialized laboratory. They can provide initial assessment and direct you to the appropriate facility if needed.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Sachse, TX

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