instant test kit

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Definition - What does instant test kit mean?

An instant test kit is a method of drug testing in which the results can be obtained immediately and on-site. If the instant test kit reveals a positive result however, the sample is then normally sent to an off-site laboratory to confirm the positive result with more sensitive and accurate equipment. Some instant test kits may also have the ability to determine if adulterants are present in the submitted sample.

SureHire explains instant test kit

An instant test kit is a method of drug testing in which the processing time of the specimen is immediate. If the test kit reveals a positive result, the sample is normally sent to an off-site laboratory to confirm the positive result through more rigorous methods such as gas chromatography mass spectrometry testing.

Certain instant test kits also allow for the detection of adulterants in the sample that may have been used to mask drug use or to otherwise invalidate the test. Instant test kits can be used with both saliva and urine samples. Instant test kits are considered an economical way for employers to perform initial drug testing so that the more expensive lab verified tests can be run only on the small subset of employees who test positive on the instant screening tests.

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