Drug Use Screening Tests

Drug use screening tests are tests that are used to detect the presence of drugs or drug metabolites in the body. These tests are commonly used in the workplace, criminal justice system, sports, and clinical settings, and their results can be used to make decisions about an individual's health, behavior, and employment status.

Preparation

Drug use screening tests can vary depending on the type of sample being tested and the drugs being tested for. For example, saliva or urine tests may require a person to provide a sample, while blood tests may require a sample to be taken from a vein.

Before a drug use screening test, it's important to inform the individual being tested about the type of sample being collected, the type of drugs being tested for, and any potential risks associated with providing the sample or with the results of the test.

Procedure

Drug use screening tests are typically performed using a sample of the individual's saliva, urine, or blood. The sample will be tested for the presence of drug metabolites—chemical compounds created by the body as a result of processing drugs.

For urine and saliva tests, the sample will be sent to a laboratory for analysis. Blood tests may be performed on-site or the sample may be sent to a laboratory. Results are usually available within one to three days.

Types

Common types of drug use screening tests include:

Urine drug tests: These tests detect the presence of drugs or drug metabolites in a urine sample.
Saliva drug tests: These tests detect the presence of drugs or drug metabolites in a saliva sample.
Blood drug tests: These tests detect the presence of drugs or drug metabolites in a blood sample.
Hair drug tests: These tests detect the presence of drugs or drug metabolites in a hair sample.

Why Drug Use Screening Tests Are Used

Drug use screening tests are commonly used in the workplace and in other settings where drug use can have serious consequences. For example, these tests are used in criminal justice settings to ensure that individuals on parole or probation are not using drugs illicitly.

They are also used in clinical settings as part of a broader effort to identify and address drug use disorders. Drug use screening tests in clinical settings can help healthcare providers determine the best course of treatment for an individual.

When Are Drug Use Screening Tests Used

Drug use screening tests are commonly used in pre-employment screenings, after an accident or injury in the workplace, or if an individual is suspected of drug use.

They are also used in clinical settings to monitor an individual's progress in treatment for a drug use disorder. When used in this way, the results of the drug use tests can be used to adjust an individual's treatment plan if necessary.

Risks

Although drug use screening tests are generally considered safe, they can pose certain risks to individuals who provide samples. For example, blood tests can carry a risk of infection, bruising, or pain. Additionally, while rare, there is a small chance that the results of a drug use screening test can be inaccurate.

Inaccurate results can have serious consequences, including a false accusation of drug use or an individual not receiving the right treatment for their condition. It's important to ensure that drug use screening tests are conducted properly and that their results are interpreted accurately.