Get a TB Test in Somers Point, NJ, Today – No Appointment Necessary
Tuberculosis (TB) testing is a common onboarding requirement in many different occupational fields, especially healthcare, childcare, and public safety. Occupying a role in fields such as these puts you at a higher risk of becoming infected by and spreading tuberculosis bacteria, which is why testing is crucial. If you need a TB test prior to starting a job in the Somers Point, New Jersey, area, visit Cape Regional Urgent Care. We offer walk-in testing and can coordinate billing with your employer, making it as easy as possible to get your TB test.
How Is a TB Test Conducted?
The most common method of tuberculosis testing is the Tuberculin Skin Test (TST), which requires two separate steps. First, a healthcare provider will inject a small amount of tuberculin – a protein extracted from a tuberculosis bacterium – into the skin of a patient’s lower arm. The second step is looking for a reaction at the injection site. However, it will take two to three days for a reaction to develop, so the patient will need to return to the provider to complete the test.
What Does a Positive TB Test Look Like?
If you have ever been exposed to TB bacteria, a firm, raised bump will appear on your skin within a few days of your TB test. The provider will measure the size of this reaction to determine whether your test is positive. In the event of a positive result, further testing will be required. This is because a reaction to the TST indicates the presence of TB bacteria, but does not signify whether this is due to a latent TB infection or TB disease. The former can be treated more easily, while the latter is highly contagious and requires extensive treatment.
Walk-In TB Tests Available Every Day
You can get a TB test at Cape Regional Urgent Care any day of the week – no appointment necessary. We are located near Somers Point, NJ, and accept many health insurance plans.