Saliva Drug Test Sent to Lab: The Need to Know

An oral fluid or saliva drug test sent to a lab involves collecting a saliva sample and forwarding it to a laboratory for analysis. It is a form of drug testing that detects various drug classes. Precisely, it begins with the collection of specimens. It is usually done by placing a swab in the mouth. Accordingly, the conductor secures the sample in a container. The specimen is then sent for laboratory testing, where saliva samples undergo a meticulous analysis process.

Drugs of abuse are substances that have the potential to cause harm to individuals. As a result, having a drug testing program in place is crucial to mitigate the influence of drugs. There are various testing methods, including hair tests, blood tests, and urine tests. However, saliva tests are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience. This article will present lab-based oral fluid drug testing, the process of sending samples to the facility, and the laboratory analysis.

What is a Saliva Drug Test Sent to a Lab?

A saliva drug test sent to a lab is a method used to detect the presence of drugs in the system of a person through their saliva. It can identify illicit drugs, prescription or over-the-counter medications, and alcohol addiction. Accordingly, this testing process involves collecting and dispatching a saliva sample to a laboratory for analysis. The lab technicians use sophisticated equipment to test the saliva for various substances.

Furthermore, the advantages of oral fluid testing are many. Mouth swab drug tests are non-invasive and easy to administer. Unlike blood testing, which requires needles, or urine drug testing, which requires privacy, saliva tests can be done quickly. The testing method can also provide fast results. Facilities can analyse samples rapidly, often within 24 to 48 hours.

A wide range of entities find saliva testing beneficial. Employers often use it to conduct workplace drug testing. It may be due to pre-employment, random, and reasonable suspicion testing. Additionally, healthcare professionals use saliva testing for monitoring substance abuse in patients. They may also use the approach during drug treatment programs. In essence, sending saliva to a lab offers convenience and accurate readings.

Advantages of Laboratory Testing

• Accuracy and Precision: Testing laboratories have state-of-the-art technology and follow stringent procedures. It avoids false negatives and false positives.
• Detection of Various Drug Types: Lab testing can identify a wide range of drugs and drug metabolites. It allows for a comprehensive assessment.
• Quantitative Data: Lab tests can quantify the amount of drug in the saliva. It can be critical for understanding the extent of substance use.
• Tamper-Resistant Procedures: Samples are handled and analysed under controlled conditions, ensuring the integrity of the test results.
• Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Laboratories often adhere to rigorous standards and certifications.

Saliva Drug Test Sent to a Lab – Process of Sending Samples to the Facility

The process for a saliva drug test sent to a lab involves a series of steps. Initially, the conductor begins by collecting oral fluid samples from the individual. It is usually done using an oral fluid collection device. Nevertheless, the collector ensures that it gathers enough saliva for analysis. It avoids any issues of contamination or inadequate sample volume.

Once there is a saliva sample, the next step is to securely package it for transport to the laboratory. The collector places the collection testing device into a container and seals it tightly. Subsequently, labelling is a critical aspect. The collector labels the package with the necessary information. It includes the date and time of collection and identification details.

Accordingly, the conductor meticulously fills a chain of custody form. It records every individual who handles the sample. It is essential for ensuring the integrity of the specimen and the reliability of the test results. The conductor will then forward the package, along with the chain of custody form, to a laboratory for testing. Couriers or mailing services for handling medical specimens are available.

Transportation of Samples to the Lab

Foremost, when there is a saliva sample, the conductor will securely seal it in a tamper-evident container. The next step involves storing the specimen in a climate-controlled environment. Oral fluid samples are sensitive to extreme temperatures and must be kept within a specific temperature range. The ideal storage is typically between 2°C and 8°C.

When it comes to shipping the samples to a lab, they should reach the facility safely and in the best possible condition. The shipping carries must be reliable and have experience in handling medical specimens. The shipping service often offers tracking capabilities, allowing the sender to monitor the package.

Saliva Drug Test Sent to a Lab – Laboratory Analysis

The analysis for a saliva drug test sent to a lab involves a meticulous process. Upon arrival at the facility, the saliva sample undergoes a careful examination. Lab technicians use advanced scientific equipment to look for specific chemicals that indicate drug use. Initial drug screenings typically employ immunoassay technology. It is common due to its high specificity, sensitivity and versatility.

Consequently, confirmatory testing occurs if the initial screening indicates the presence of drugs. It verifies the results by using sophisticated techniques like Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) or Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS). These methods provide highly accurate data on the types of drugs and the quantity of drugs present in the saliva samples.

After the confirmation testing, specialists interpret the data to determine if the individual has a drug in their system. Professionals carefully review the results to ensure accuracy. Finally, the facility compiles the results into a report and returns it to the requesting party. It can be an employer, legal entity, or medical professional. Throughout the process, labs follow strict guidelines.

Understanding the Results

A negative result means that the laboratory did not find any traces of drugs in the saliva sample. It indicates that the person has not recently used those specific substances. Conversely, a non-negative result is more complex. It does not conclusively indicate drug use, but rather that the test detects something that requires further investigation. Confirmatory testing typically occurs.

Additionally, a positive result is straightforward. It confirms the presence of drugs in the saliva specimen. This outcome indicates that the individual has recently used the substance in question. Positive results in a lab are usually very reliable due to the testing techniques.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when a saliva drug test sent to a lab for analysis, it allows for more accurate results. It is a method of testing that can detect the presence of drugs in the system of an individual through their saliva. Employers, health professionals, and legal authorities commonly use saliva testing. Accordingly, lab testing holds excellent advantages. It is accurate and precise, detects various types of drugs, tamper-resistance, presents quantitative data, and adheres to legal and regulatory standards.

The process begins by collecting saliva specimens from the individual. Then, the conductor securely packs and labels the sample. They typically fill out a chain of custody form to ensure the integrity of the sample. Subsequently, conductors store the specimen in a temperate range of 2°C and 8°C. Medical specimen shipping carries are available for transport. In the lab, the sample undergoes initial and confirmatory testing using scientific equipment. The result can be negative, non-negative, or positive.