Getting a PCR (nose and throat swab) test
This is an Easy Read fact sheet about taking a COVID-19 PCR test.
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The NSW Government wrote this guide.
When you see the word ‘we’, it means the NSW Government.
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We wrote this guide in an easy to read way.
We use pictures to explain some ideas.
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We have written some words in bold.
This means the letters are thicker and darker.
We explain what these words mean.
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You can ask for help to read this guide.
A friend, family member or support person may be able to help you.
What is a PCR test?
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A PCR (nose and throat swab) test is a way to check if you have COVID-19.
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You need a form from your doctor to get a PCR test.
To get a PCR test, you will need to take your form to a clinic to get tested there.
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A health care worker does the test for you.
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A PCR test is different to a rapid antigen test.
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A rapid antigen test is a fast way to check if you have COVID-19.
You can do a rapid antigen test at home.
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We have Easy Read information about rapid antigen tests on our website.
Who should get a PCR test?
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Some people are at high risk of getting very sick if they have COVID-19.
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You are at high risk of catching COVID-19 if you are:
- aged 60 or over
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- pregnant
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- an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person aged 35 or over.
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You are also at high risk if you:
- have serious health problems
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- have a disability
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- live in an aged care home – a place where older people live
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- live in a place where people with disability get care for their disability
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- haven’t had a COVID-19 vaccine.
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A vaccine is a medicine that:
- helps people fight a virus if they come into contact with it
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- can stop people from getting very sick from the virus
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- can stop you from passing the virus to someone else.
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You should talk to your doctor about what test you should get if you are at high risk of catching COVID-19.
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We have Easy Read information about COVID-19 symptoms on our website.
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You can do a rapid antigen test if you have symptoms.
A symptom is a sign you might be sick.
You might:
- see symptoms
- feel symptoms.
What happens when you get a PCR test?
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A health care worker will do the PCR test for you.
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The health care worker will take a swab from inside your:
- throat
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- nose.
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A swab is a long stick with cotton on the end.
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The test might be a bit uncomfortable.
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It might make:
- you cough or sneeze
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- your eyes water.
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It will be over quickly.
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The health care worker will tell you:
- what you must do next
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- when you will get your results.
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You can ask the health care worker to send your results to someone you trust, like a:
- family member
- carer.
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You should stay at home until you receive your test result.
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Stay home so that you don't infect other people, if you have COVID-19.
Where can you get a PCR test?
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You can get a PCR test at a clinic if your doctor says you should get one.
Support for you
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You can call the Healthdirect Health Advice Line.
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You can call the Service NSW COVID-19 Helpline.
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For more information on which test is right for you, visit:
www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/testing-managing/get-tested-for-covid-19
