Patients who are being admitted sometimes refuse to be tested for COVID-19. These patients have to be considered as PUIs and placed in contact/droplet precautions, and also placed in infectious precautions as if the patient is COVID-positive. These patients may not be aware of the consequences of this choice; primarily, they will not be allowed to have any visitors while they are here. Here is some suggested dialogue for talking to patients who are reticent or decline to be tested:

“I understand you are concerned about the COVID-19 test. Would you mind telling me what those concerns are? I’d be happy to answer your questions and help you understand why we are testing all patients who get admitted to the hospital.”

[If the patient still declines testing.] ”I hear your concerns and respect your right to choose what you think is best. However I must also tell you that for patients who choose to not be tested for COVID, we have to follow the same care protocols as for patients who are positive for having COVID. This means that you will not be able to have friends or family members visit you. And, the providers and staff caring for you will have to take more precautions for infection prevention and wear extra protective gear. I encourage you to think this over and then I can come back in a few minutes to see if you are willing to change your mind and get the test.”