Drug Test Pharmacy in NZ: Its Importance and Reliability

Illegal drug use and impairments are significant risk factors for accidents, especially on the road and at work in New Zealand. Thus, there is an increasing need to monitor individuals in safety-critical areas at all times. Drug test pharmacies in NZ help various organisations screen their workforce for prohibited substances. They provide cost-efficient test kits and supplies that are easy to use and administer. Additionally, they are reliable for individual and professional use.

Drug test kits are available for urine, saliva, hair strand, and breath testing. Using these devices is vital for employers and other professionals to ensure compliance with their drug-testing policies. Test kits are designed for rapid results, accuracy, and convenience. Nevertheless, knowing how to use them is necessary for reliable results. In this article, we will explore the importance of drug test pharmacies, test methods, and general guidelines for using them.

The Reliability of Drug Test Pharmacies in NZ

Individuals and various industries can get reliable testing supplies from drug test pharmacies in NZ. They can provide a wide range of screening kits for different needs. They may also offer consultation on the right devices and tools for specific substances. Therefore, you can ensure to get dependable drug or alcohol testing.

Drug testing kits are portable tools that examine biological specimens and give the results in minutes. They provide qualitative detection of illicit drugs or alcohol using immunoassays. Hence, they show negative and non-negative results in the presence or absence of drugs. A non-negative result indicates recent drug use and has reached the cut-off level.

Instant test kits are more inexpensive than laboratory tests. However, it is not as accurate as the advanced procedures of testing centres. Nevertheless, the correct usage and sampling procedure remain reliable in different environments. Moreover, they can serve as a basis for further confirmation. It enables workplaces to monitor drug use without spending much on initial screening.

Benefits

• Provide a wide range of drug test kits for different needs and budgets.
• More cost-efficient for substance use screening than laboratory methods.
• They are easily accessible.
• They are easy and convenient to use. It does not require a licensed professional to administer the test.
• Help companies comply with state and regulatory requirements related to drug testing.
• They are ready to use at any time without going to a clinic in case of reasonable suspicion or other reasons.
• Suitable for personal or home use. Parents may use it to monitor family members under medication.
• Promote accountability, aiding in the prevention and treatment of substance abuse.

Drug Test Pharmacy in NZ: Types of Test Methods

There are several forms or methods available at drug test pharmacies in NZ. The common types are urine strip or dip cards, saliva tests, hair strand collection, and breath testers. Urine samples can detect the presence of drugs for up to 48 hours from the last consumption. It works by dipping a test strip or card into the specimen, forming a visible change when it traces drugs.

A saliva test involves swabbing the inside of the mouth to obtain samples. The absorbent stick is mixed with a solution that tests for antibodies. Similar to urine screening, it may show a line when it detects drugs. However, saliva or oral fluids have a shorter detection window than urine.

Moreover, a hair strand test kit includes a collection pouch. This test involves getting a 1.5-inch hair sample from the crown and sending it to a laboratory for analysis. It is appropriate for long-term monitoring as it can trace drugs and alcohol for up to 90 days. Lastly, a breathalyser is a portable device that examines the breath to measure the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC).

Rapid Test Kits vs Laboratory Tests

There are several differences between rapid tests and laboratory analyses. The key difference is the accuracy of the results. Rapid tests provide qualitative results in positive and negative forms. However, laboratory tests show quantitative details with a numerical value or range. Additionally, rapid tests provide results within minutes, while lab tests require more time and resources.

Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on the specific needs and circumstances of the testing situation. For instance, workplaces use rapid test kits for regular screening procedures. However, lab testing is necessary after an accident or if the initial screen detects illicit drugs.

Drug Test Pharmacy in NZ: Test Guidelines

Devices at drug test pharmacies in NZ are simple and straightforward to use. Nevertheless, it requires careful and thorough handling. In using test kits, read the instructions carefully for proper sampling procedures. After collection, analyse the specimen using the included test strip or card. Check the results immediately and store the sample for further confirmation.

Moreover, avoid interpreting the results after 10 minutes or the stated duration, as it may affect accuracy. If the test is positive, send the samples to a laboratory to verify and receive detailed results. Workplaces or mobile testing centres must observe a chain of custody to protect the testing process from liability.

Proper preparations also help enhance the effectiveness of the test and prevent false positives. It includes abstaining from taking drugs or eating certain food and alcohol before the scheduled test. Lastly, dispose of the used materials accordingly and maintain safety and hygiene. By adhering to these guidelines, companies can ensure that the drug tests are reliable and accurate.

Factors That May Affect the Test

Although they are reliable, drug test kits have limitations that may affect their accuracy. Firstly, they cannot measure the exact drug concentrations or levels. If the test detects substances, a follow-up or confirmatory testing is necessary. Secondly, they have a shorter detection window than advanced laboratory testing.

Thirdly, prescription drugs like painkillers may increase the chances of a false positive. Likewise, incidental exposure to alcohol-based products and external contaminants can interfere with the result. Moreover, some drugs may be undetected due to their low quantities or short half-lives. Lastly, human errors and attempts to tamper with specimens may cause false positives or negatives.

Conclusion

Drug test pharmacies in NZ provide reliable drug and alcohol testing supplies. It includes instant test kits for urine, saliva, hair, and breath testing. Individuals or workplaces can use them to screen illegal drugs and alcohol quickly and conveniently. In addition, they do not require a health practitioner to administer the test. Nevertheless, it is vital to follow the test guidelines to ensure the accuracy and effectiveness of the test methods.

For alcohol testing, a breathalyser is cost-efficient and easy to use. Devices like BACtrack from Breathalysers New Zealand provide accurate BAC measurement. It is also ideal for individuals who want to manage their alcohol consumption and prevent drink driving. Furthermore, it is vital to choose a device or testing service that adheres to strict standards and regulations. Therefore, check if the test kits have accreditation. In conclusion, reliable drug test methods and supplies are important for ensuring safety.