Drug testing has become a customary practice for many businesses. It serves many purposes, including keeping the workplace safe. Point of Care Drug Testing (POCT) is one of the specific methods employers can use for screening their employees. We can help you understand what POCT is and provide other information that employers and employees should know about this type of screening.
What is POCT Drug Testing
POCT (Point of Care Testing) is a method of drug testing that typically takes place on-site and provides instant results without the need to send the sample to the lab. It is a form of instant drug screening. It provides rapid results at the location where the test is performed, and sample is collected. POCT typically uses urine for the sample and a 5-panel drug test for screening. However, oral fluid samples are gaining in popularity.
How Does POCT Work
A POCT test starts by collecting a sample, typically urine. The results should appear quickly. Results are then presented to the necessary parties by an ARCpoint Labs staff member. It should only take a few minutes, which is why it is considered an instant test. Depending on the result of the test no additional testing may be required or a tested individual may be required to do follow up testing.
What You Need to Know About POCT
Here are some things you should consider about POCT before you decide to make it your testing format, especially if you do not plan to use any other methods. Some of the things you need to know include:
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- Its Role: POCT can help prevent drug abuse in your company. The quick result turn-around time can be beneficial in certain screening scenarios, especially when time is of the essence.
- Common Panels: Most POCT use a 5-panel drug test, which covers the most commonly abused substances at work. There are several variations available to meet your testing needs.
- Specimen Type: For a POCT screening, urine and oral fluids are the specimen types most commonly used for POCT
While POCT provides instant results, a non-negative initial result would need to be referred for lab-based drug testing to confirm test results. Some state regulations even spell this out as a mandate for employment testing.
Advantages of POCT
The primary advantage of choosing POCT is the instant result. Many times, you need results now and not in a few days. Also, there is the advantage of convenience. The “point of care” is almost anywhere that you want to do the test. The lab can come to your facility, or you can refer employees to a lab to complete the drug screening.
Considerations and Limitations
POCT is a fast-screening method, but you need to be prepared if non-negative results happen. This will require you to send the sample to a certified lab, so the results can be considered legally definitive. Following up a non-negative result with lab-based drug testing is considered best practice and protects your company. If something happens following a non-negative result, and your business ends up in court, you want results that the court accepts, such as lab-based drug testing.
ARCpoint Labs Provides Accurate Drug Testing Results
If you need instant drug testing, POCT is a valuable method that you can use. It offers quick screening and helps you prevent drug abuse in your workplace. Trust ARCpoint Labs for your drug testing needs. Contact us today.