If you have been told that you need to have regular drug testing, there are different types of available drug testing that are used. Below are two of these types so you will know what to expect during your screening and physical examination.
Instant Drug Test
Most drug tests must be sent to a lab to be analyzed to obtain professional results. With an instant drug test, however, the results appear immediately. This type of drug test is often done in the workplace so employers can determine quickly if one of their employees is using drugs. This type of test is also often used in drug treatment programs to determine if a person is not telling the truth about their drug use. Probation officers may also use the instant drug test to check those who are on probation during their visit.
The instant drug test may be used to test for only one drug, such as marijuana or opiates. There are other instant drug tests that are used to test for a variety of drugs simultaneously. If this type is used, the results will show each drug and how much of each drug is in your system.
To take this test, the person asking you to take the drug test will ask you for a sample of your urine, which is obtained by urinating into a special cup. The cup itself measures how much of a drug is in your system. The cup has outside labels that are different colors. The color that appears determines how much of the drug tested for is in your system. For example, red may show that you have a higher percentage of a drug and yellow may show you have a lower percentage.
Perspiration Drug Test
A newer type of drug test that may be used on you is known as the perspiration drug test. With this type of test, you wear a patch on your skin, such as on your arm or upper back. The patch can detect if there are drugs in your system through the perspiration that you excrete.
You will wear the patch on a constant basis for approximately two weeks. This type of test is often used when a person must be constantly monitored, such as if you are on probation or are trying to gain custody of your child and have a past drug problem. This will show the court that you are drug-free for a certain amount of time.
The perspiration test often tests for drugs like marijuana, opiates, PCP, amphetamine, methamphetamine, and cocaine. The patch has a collector pad that is secured to your skin with an adhesive film. This film is very strong and will not come off even if you get the area wet, such as when you take a shower.
Talk with the company providing the drug testing to learn more about these and other types.
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