What is a Drug Test and Screening?
A drug screening and test is a process that is used to see if an individual has the presence of illegal substances in their body. The most common drugs that are tested for are:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Methadone
- Methamphetamines
- Opioids
- PCP
- Benzodiazepines
Why is a drug test and screening so important?
Getting drug tested is something that can be required of individuals who are in the hiring process of a new job, someone who is on parole, or required for student athletes. There are certain industries that require a drug test some of which are, transportation, safety, defense, and aviation.
What do I bring to the testing center and the process of collecting a sample?
You will need to have a government approved ID when showing up to take your test. There are multiple ways to test for a drug test. Some of the more common ways to test are through a urine test, a hair test, a blood test, or oral fluids test (saliva). Each test has a different process for how the lab will collect the sample they are testing.
- Blood Tests: These tests can measure the amount of drugs present at the time of the test. There is a shorter detection period for drugs because they leave the blood quicker and are deposited in the urine. To collect a sample, blood will be drawn.
- Urine Tests: The test works by picking up on metabolites that remain in the body after the effects of the drugs are gone. To collect a sample, individuals will collect urine in a cup
- Hair Tests: The test has a much larger detection window (can detect use up to 90 days back) and is the least invasive. To collect a sample, hair is first taken from the head, but can also include hair elsewhere
- Oral Fluid Tests: The oral fluids test is better for detecting current use of drugs since the drugs do not remain in the oral fluid for long. The collection process usually consists of a cheek swab.
If you are showing up for a urine test, do not drink excess amounts of fluids prior to showing up for your test. Drinking too much can dilute the test and you will have to take a new one.
So, now what?
Now that you know the importance, process, and reason to get a drug screening and test, it is time to call and make an appointment if you haven’t already. The sooner you get your test done, the sooner you can get your new job, satisfy parole requirements, or get back on the field.