How to Do an At-Home COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test Correctly

Please note that not all tests are the same. Read through the instructions included with the test before you begin.

At-home rapid antigen tests are a key in stopping the spread of COVID-19, but it’s important to do them properly. UC Davis Health pediatric nurse Claudio Alvarado shares a step-by-step guide on how to use a common COVID test at home.

0:00 What's in the home test kit?
0:35 How to use the nasal collection swab
1:10 How to use the vial and dropper
1:30 How to insert and remove the swab in the vial
2:05 How to use the COVID-19 test card
3:12 What to do if your test is positive

The information in this video was accurate as of the upload date, 2/7/22. For information purposes only. Consult your local medical authority for advice.

#covid19 #coronavirus #hometest #omicron #ucdavis

[upeasterner]

I despaired when I opened the test kit...the directions were awful. Thank you so much for this!

[PokerJunkie]

Half inch up the nose is way better than the other test where they were literally strumming my brain 😂

[BOOEYROOWHO]

Thank you. Your visual instructions helped me. I normally comprehend instructions. But I had some doubt on a couple of things. You were clear and you showed each piece you used clearly. Thanks you did a great job.

[lilylopez]

Thank you for taking the time to teach us. Fast & easy instructions. And thank you for all you do to help keep us safe & healthy.

[XxQueenChristinaxX]

Thanks. I’ve never taken this type of COVID test before and wasn’t satisfied with the written instructions. Helpful.

[jaysee]

This was the best tutorial I've found online. The written instructions that come with the kit are somewhat confusing; I ended up wasting one of the kits. Your video made it very simple. Thanks! A
Another thought, a QR Code included with the written instructions that link to this type of video would have been very helpful.

[peggys]

Thank you! When we don’t feel well, processing directions isn’t always easy.

[zacharyrodriquez]

Thanks for this simple and easy instruction on how to use the free home tests we just received! Those written instructions seem so intimidating and endless! Thanks again!👍

[HealthyBodyForLife]

My brother goes to Davis! Making us proud!

[teenafithian]

This was so much easier to follow. I only wished I saw it before I did the test. I was not sure I’d I had done the test correctly as I got a Negative result. But got a “C” line. I did not look in the mirror to make sure I put the swab in all the way. And I also have the same symptoms as I did before when I’ve had a positive result.. So I may retest again tomorrow or sooner. Thank you.

[myesainla]

I need to test for my line of work. I've come back to this quick vid a time or two so that I can test at home just to make sure i'm good to go. lol Thank you for this!

[betsyhughley-alford]

I read those instructions over and over....and gave up. Then found your step by step video....thanks!!

[susanasher]

Thank you so much for the great directions. I couldn't understand the video from iHealth. Yours was perfect.

[Maillady]

Ty for taking time to make this video! It was very easy to understand & right to the point. Very well done!

[bholmes]

As mine came in Spanish I found your tutorial very well done.

[JouvaMoufette]

Thank you! This helped when it came to the depth of how far the swab should go.

The only thing is that this isn't completely up to date. As you mentioned, some test kits differ. I think the biggest part that should be mentioned is that the fluid in the tube may be in a separate container that needs to be squeezed out into the tube. That was the only difference I noticed for the same brand test kit used in this video

[rosejones]

Haven't figured it out - I will follow you info and get back to you.

[WhySoSeriousHmmm]

One critique - when you talk about the line appearing at the "T" for a positive test result, also mention that the "C" line should simultaneously be present - so as not to cause confusion and to be as clear as possible. Because a single line on the entire screen and only under the "T" would probably mean an invalid test.

[dawn]

Thank you so much for taking the time to explain how to use this kit. It was very helpful!

[rubytuesday]

Thank you. I couldnt read the instructions...the print was so small. I did it wrong! Didnt know until after I watched this. Will do another test tomorrow, first thing. 👍