Drug testing has become a routine practice in various settings, such as law enforcement, workplace, and healthcare. In particular, oral testing provides a quick and non-invasive way to determine real-time impairment, as it directly measures the presence of drugs in a person at the time of testing. This article will explore the features, applications, and usage guidelines of the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test.

Jump to a Section:

• What Is the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test?
• Applications of the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test in Workplace Safety
• A Look at the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test Design
• What Substances Can the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test Detect?
• Is the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test Accurate?
• ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test Specimen Preparation
• ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test Storage and Stability
• Is It Easy to Use the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test?
• ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test Interpretation of Results
• Final Thoughts on the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test

What Is the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test?

The ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test is a screening tool to detect the presence of illegal drugs or abuse of prescription drugs. It is a non-invasive method that involves swabbing the inside of the mouth. The drug test kit is a lateral flow chromatographic immunoassay that analyses one or more drug analytes in a liquid sample.

When a person consumes drugs, the liver metabolises the substance into byproducts, which enter different parts of the body. One common way drugs enter the saliva is through passive diffusion. After metabolism, drugs dissolve in bodily fluids and diffuse from the bloodstream into the oral cavity. They can be detectable in saliva within minutes hours after ingestion.

The oral fluid drug test provides quick and accurate results, making it suitable for immediate testing situations. It is ideal for simple on-site testing and results interpretation without needing special facilities or equipment. Due to its convenience and hassle-free nature, it is gaining preference in workplaces and personal testing.

Intended Use

• Workplace safety: Check for possible drug use or impairment of employees while on the job.
• Roadside safety: Police officers conduct oral fluid tests to check for drug impairment in drivers during traffic stops.
• Probation programs: Individual on probation or parole may be required to undergo oral drug testing as part of their monitoring.
• Rehabilitation or treatment programs: Health professionals may use oral fluid tests to monitor the progress of recovery of patients with substance abuse issues.
• Sports testing: Oral fluid drug testing is also used in professional sports to ensure athletes are not using banned substances or performance-enhancing drugs.

Applications of the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test in Workplace Safety

One of the primary applications of the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test is in workplace safety. Prevailing drug use poses significant risks to employee welfare and productivity. Thus, employers implement drug testing programs to ensure a safe and drug-free work environment. Oral fluid testing can be used as a tool for pre-employment screening. By testing applicants, they can be sure they are not bringing potential risks into the workplace.

Another application is random drug screening. This aims to determine if an individual is under the influence of drugs while working. The rapid results of the saliva testing process can provide a real-time assessment of their drug use. Additionally, it is valuable in post-incident testing. This method can help determine if substance impairment may have led to the accident.

Moreover, saliva drug testing is suitable for testing individuals with reasonable suspicion of taking illegal drugs. This method aims to detect drugs in employees showing signs of impairment or intoxication. Thus, employers can take appropriate actions before accidents can happen.

Importance of a Safe Working Environment

A safe working environment is of utmost importance for both employers and employees. Firstly, it ensures the physical and mental well-being of everyone, especially in industries with high-risk nature. When employees feel safe and secure, they can focus on their work without worrying about potential dangers. This can lead to increased productivity and productivity.

Lastly, a safe workplace reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. Frequent accidents can lead to costly hospital expenses, compensation claims, and legal battles. By making sure employees are physically and mentally fit, employers can minimise safety hazards and create a more productive and positive environment.

A Look at the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test Design

The ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test offers simplicity and efficiency of drug testing. Its user-friendly design allows for easy administration and accurate interpretation of results. The test kit consists of a collection stick, a testing device, and a result window. In addition, it is compact and easy to use anywhere. This eliminates the need for a special facility to conduct the test.

The test kit incorporates advanced technology that allows the simultaneous detection of multiple drugs. Furthermore, it can analyse the sample and determine the results within minutes. This efficiency makes it a valuable tool for detecting drug usage in various locations. It also enables organisations to effectively monitor impairment and enforce regulations.

Additionally, the ‘Oral Click’ test kit utilises a mechanism that prevents tampering, ensuring the integrity of the results. This quality control measure enhances consistency and precision in the test outcomes. This level of accuracy is crucial in situations where the results can have significant consequences. Overall, the device offers convenience, efficiency, and accuracy in drug testing.

Simple Sample Collection

One of the advantages of a mouth swab drug test is its simple and non-invasive collection procedure. Saliva samples are readily available without the need for a private restroom, unlike in urine testing. Likewise, it is painless, unlike blood tests, which involve the use of needles.

The sample collection can be done quickly and in various types of environments. The test administrator can also supervise the collection, minimising the likelihood of tampering or adulteration. This makes it an alternative for some employers who may have challenges in getting urine. Overall, the collection process is designed to obtain oral fluid samples with minimal effort.

What Substances Can the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test Detect?

The ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test kit can detect multiple substances at once. It tests for six primary prescription and illicit drugs, including amphetamine, methamphetamine, opiates, cocaine, oxycodone, and cannabis. Firstly, amphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant that affects the brain and nerves. It includes methamphetamine and MDMA (ecstasy), which are highly addictive.

Secondly, opiates include prescription painkillers like oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, and codeine, as well as illegal drugs like heroin. The misuse of these substances can cause respiratory depression, sedation, and euphoria. Thirdly, cocaine is a powerful stimulant that is often used as a recreational drug due to its euphoric effects. It can lead to increased heart rate and blood pressure.

Lastly, cannabis is a psychoactive drug that is commonly used for recreational purposes. It can alter perception and impair coordination and judgment. The test kit can detect tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the principal constituent of cannabis. These substances represent some of the most abused drugs, making the ‘Oral Click’ test kit an effective tool for identifying drug use.

Cut-Off Levels

The cut-off level in drug testing refers to the threshold concentration of a specific substance in a biological sample. It is measured in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL). The ‘Oral Click’ test kit has established cut-off levels for each substance it tests for.

Drugs or metabolites that exceed this threshold are considered significant amounts and positive. It is set to ensure accurate and reliable results and minimise the risk of false positives. The following are the cut-off levels for each drug:

• Amphetamine (AMP) – 50ng/ml
• Opiates (OPI) – 50ng/ml
• Methamphetamine (MET) – 50ng/ml
• Cocaine (COC) – 50ng/ml
• Oxycodone (OXY) – 40ng/ml
• Cannabis (THC) – 15ng/ml

Is the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test Accurate?

While saliva drug tests are gaining popularity as a convenient and non-invasive option, it is important to consider their accuracy. The ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test prioritises the accuracy and reliability of results. The device adheres to the Australian Standards (AS/NZS:4760). These standards ensure that the saliva drug testing kit meets the necessary requirements for accuracy. Hence, it can give results that are consistent across various industries or test situations.

Moreover, since a professional can supervise the sample collection, it prevents tampering. The collector can conduct the test from collection, storage, and analysis of the specimens following the chain of custody procedures. Therefore, it ensures the integrity of the samples, enhancing the reliability of test results.

However, not all drug test methods or devices are 100% foolproof. There are several factors that can affect the test, such as improper collection technique, user error, and interfering substances. For example, eating or drinking before the test may result in false positives. Taking certain medications can also interfere with the accuracy of the test.

AS/NZS Standards

The AS/NZS Standards are a set of guidelines and requirements that govern the performance of drug testing devices in Australia and New Zealand. The ‘Oral Click’ test kit adheres to the latest AS/NZS:4760 standards. These guidelines are in place to meet a certain level of quality and accuracy, especially in professional testing environments.

One of the requirements of the certification is establishing screening cut-offs. The use of specific thresholds minimises false positives while still identifying significant amounts of drugs in the system. Furthermore, it also ensures that the device is easy to use, provides clear results, and meets safety requirements.

‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test Specimen Preparation

Individuals undergoing an oral drug test can expect several steps in the specimen preparation process. The ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test kit includes instructions for proper specimen collection and preparation. An overview of the process includes abstaining from eating or drinking at least 10 minutes before the test. This helps ensure that food, drinks, or tobacco will not contaminate the saliva samples.

Additionally, allow the oral fluid testing kit and specimen to reach room temperature (15-30°C) prior to testing. This temperature range ensures optimal performance of the device. It also allows the enzymes in the saliva to remain active. Once ready, remove the test kit from the sealed pouch and follow the instructions for usage.

Oral fluid can be collected and analysed at any time of the day. However, store the specimen at 2-8°C or -20°C for up to 72 hours if the specimen cannot be tested immediately. It may also be stored at room temperature for up to 48 hours. Furthermore, no other collection device should be used with this test.

Specimen Collection

To conduct the test, sweep the inside of the mouth (cheek, gum, tongue) several times, then hold the swab in the mouth until the colour on the saturation indicator strip appears. Do not bite, suck, or chew the sponge. Then, place the kit on a clean and flat surface and open the cap.

Remove the collection sponge from the mouth and insert it into the screening device until it touches the bottom of the cup. Push the cap until it locks in place. Lastly, wait for the coloured signal to appear in the test results area. Read the results at 10 minutes.

‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test Storage and Stability

Proper storage of the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test is essential to maintain its effectiveness, reliability, and validity. In general, store the kit in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Another option is to keep it refrigerated at 2-30°C. This helps to prevent any degradation or damage to the device, which could lead to inaccurate test results.

Additionally, keep the testing kit in the sealed pouch until use. Keeping it in its original packaging can help protect the device from any potential contaminants or environmental factors that may affect its stability. After the test, store any unused or unopened kits in a cool and dry place.

Furthermore, the testing device remains stable through its expiration date. Before use, always check the date as printed on the sealed pouch. Do not use the kit if it is beyond the expiration date. To avoid spoiling the device, keep a regular inventory check and use them on a first-in, first-out basis.

Storage Guidelines for Longer Shelf Life

• Store the saliva drug test kit in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture damage.
• Keep the kit away from direct sunlight, UV radiation, and extreme temperatures to maintain product integrity.
• Do not freeze the device to avoid damage to the components.
• Do not open the sealed packaging until before use.
• Avoid storing the device near chemicals or substances that may affect its composition or effectiveness.
• Keep the device away from strong odours that may contaminate or alter the test results.
• Store the kit in a clean, dust-free area to prevent any particles from interfering with the test.

Is It Easy to Use the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test?

The ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test is easy to use and user-friendly. The testing process is simple and straightforward, with instructions that are clear and concise. To use the device, individuals collect the saliva samples using the mentioned guidelines. Then, insert the saturated swab stick into the screening device and wait for the results.

The entire process is quick and can be completed within minutes. The simplicity of use makes it convenient for workplaces, especially in testing a large group of people. In addition, it requires minimal training and expertise. It also minimises the need for a professional to administer the test. Nevertheless, it is vital to follow the instructions properly to ensure the accuracy and validity of the results.

Moreover, the test offers quick results. After activating the screening mechanism of the device, it only takes a few minutes for the results to appear. This rapid turnaround time allows users and employers to make decisions. The combination of user-friendly design and clear instructions makes it an efficient and accessible tool for drug detection.

Limitations

There are several limitations that individuals have to take into consideration when performing saliva testing. Firstly, the detection window of drugs in saliva is short. It can trace substances within the past 12 to 48 hours, depending on the substance. This means that if a person has consumed drugs more than two days prior, it may not be detected.

Secondly, dry mouth can impact the test. It is a condition where there is insufficient saliva production. Thus, the lack of saliva may result in an inadequate sample for testing. Lastly, certain medications, food contaminants, or mouthwash can interfere with the test.

‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test Interpretation of Results

The ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test has a simplified system of reading and interpreting the results. It is important to note that the outcomes are qualitative and will show the presence or absence of substances. This means it can determine if a drug is present but not measure how much is in the system.

The appearance of a coloured line in the test line region indicates a negative result. It means that no drug is present or the drug concentration is below the designated cut-off level. The shade of line colour may vary, but even a faint line is still considered negative. On the other hand, the absence of a line in the test region of a specific drug indicates a positive or non-negative result.

It is essential for non-negative results to require further testing. In this case, secure the cap with a seal and send the device to a laboratory for confirmation. Laboratories then perform additional tests, such as gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). These techniques can determine the specific drug and its concentration in the sample.

Quality Control

The device includes a procedural control to ensure the validity of the test. The control line in the panel should always appear, regardless of whether drugs are present or not. This serves as an indicator that the device is functioning properly and confirms sufficient specimen volume and correct procedural technique.

If the control line does not appear, the test is invalid. Users should ignore the test result, as it may be unreliable. Users should review the procedure and repeat the test using a new kit. It is also important to read and interpret the results at exactly 10 minutes.

Final Thoughts on the ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test

The ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test is a user-friendly and efficient tool for the detection of drugs. Its simplicity of use and quick turnaround time make it convenient for workplaces, especially for those with high-volume test requirements. Furthermore, it requires minimal training to conduct the test. Employers may use it as an alternative if urine tests are not available.

The device can detect substances within the past 48 hours, indicating recent consumption. The short detection time is suitable for situations needing to determine recent drug use. However, it is important to consider the limitations of saliva testing and its potential impact on the results. Factors such as dry mouth, incorrect collection technique, food, and medications can interfere with the test.

The interpretation of results is straightforward. The presence or absence of a coloured line indicates if the sample is negative or positive. Individuals should always follow the guidelines to ensure correct interpretation. If the screening result is non-negative, it is important to confirm it through further laboratory testing. This approach helps minimise the possibility of false positives, maintaining the integrity of the test.

Summary

• The detection time of drugs in saliva is 12 to 48 hours, depending on the amount of intake and whether the person is an occasional or chronic user.
• The device can be used at any time and place.
• Saliva tests are suitable for post-incident, random, and reasonable suspicion cases.
• The ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test has AS/NZS:4760 certification. It ensures that it meets the regulatory requirements for oral drug testing in workplace or medico-legal settings.
• The device should be stored properly to maintain its effectiveness and reliability.
• If the test is non-negative, forward the sample to a laboratory for confirmatory testing.

Conclusion

The ‘Oral Click’ Saliva Drug Test offers individuals and organisations a reliable way to detect substance use or impairment. Saliva testing is a non-invasive and convenient process to determine if a person is under the influence of illegal drugs. This type of testing provides quick results. Therefore, authorities, healthcare providers, or employers can make informed decisions. It is beneficial in preventing accidents and identifying if a person needs treatment or intervention.

Operating the device properly is vital to getting accurate results. Thus, individuals should follow the sample collection guidelines and be aware of interfering factors. If unsure, it is best to consult a professional for guidance or advice. They may confirm the test with a Medical Review Officer (MRO) before making decisions or disciplinary actions. Overall, the ‘Oral Click’ helps companies maintain a safe and productive working environment by screening for the most abused substances.