The rapid drug testing process is not 100% accurate, but it has a high rate of accuracy. Rapid tests can detect two to twelve drugs, but only urine samples can be tested. In contrast, lab based tests can detect virtually any substance from blood, saliva, and hair. This makes rapid drug testing particularly useful for jobs where safety is of paramount concern. Regardless of its speed, it is essential to choose the right one for your situation.
There are several factors to consider when deciding on the most accurate drug screening method for your business. First, consider the state and federal laws governing drug and alcohol testing. Many of these policies are set by states, so a comprehensive review of these policies is beyond the scope of this article. Alternatively, contact the Drug and Alcohol Testing Industry Association to learn about the policies that apply in your area. Its goal is to make the entire process of drug screening simpler and faster for employers.
GC/MS testing is the gold standard of drug testing. This method identifies the actual substances contained in the specimen. It requires several days to complete and is only available from nationally accredited laboratories. Moreover, they are overseen by scientists with advanced degrees. The accuracy of GC/MS tests can be up to ninety percent. A lab's accreditation is important, so make sure it has several certificates of operating authority.
A urine drug test is a good choice when it comes to detecting prescription and illegal drugs. Besides legal reasons, this test is often requested by employers, sports officials, and doctors. The tests are sensitive to a variety of substances, including nicotine, barbiturates, and opioids. Certain substances can remain traceable in the body longer than others, which means that a positive result may not be conclusive in all cases. If you are unsure of whether a urine test is accurate, it may be necessary to repeat it for accuracy.
Urine is the most common sample used in a rapid drug test. It contains the highest concentration of drugs and has the longest detection window of any method. Furthermore, it can be used for identifying people with drug-related offenses. It is a convenient option for those who want to test for drug use but don't want to wait for a lab test to be confirmed. If you are suspected of any illegal activity, a quick urine drug test may be a better solution.
As with any test, there are potential false positives. Sometimes, these false positives can be caused by diet pills or over-the-counter drugs. Even some foods can produce detectable amounts of controlled substances, including morphine and poppy seeds. These are not 100% true, but they are worth knowing about before making a decision. The most common false positives occur when a urine sample contains traces of these substances.
Another common mistake that causes a negative drug test is dilute urine specimens. Usually, instant drug tests give results in terms of positive or negative. The positive result indicates the presence of an illegal substance above a certain cutoff concentration. Many laboratories use the standards established by SAMHSA. If the test is still positive, you should get a follow-up test using the same specimen. And remember, if you're not sure, you should always consult a medical review officer to find out if further testing is necessary.
Home drug tests are a convenient choice. They don't require the same level of precision as a laboratory-based test. They also provide preliminary results, but are not a substitute for lab-based testing. A positive test is almost always followed by a confirmation test. Therefore, lab-based tests are the best choice for accurate drug screening. If you suspect your loved one is using drugs, you should get their test done.
Rapid drug testing is a useful adjunct to clinical care, but can be inaccurate if not interpreted correctly. Clinicians should also interview their adolescent patients and use the test to validate or refute their expectations. The ease of tampering should prompt providers to revisit sample validation procedures and collection protocols. However, there are several ways to test urine to determine if an individual is using drugs.