Drug Testing: What You Should Expect

If you are heading to a laboratory for your first drug test, you may be a little nervous. This is completely normal, and the nerves usually develop due to not knowing what you should expect from the test. First things first, why are you having the drug test? You may be required to undergo a drug test as a pre-employment screening (before an employer can officially give you a job), as compliance to maintain your employment or placement on the sports team, as a result of an injury or accident (to determine if you were abusing drugs or alcohol at the time), or another reason entirely. Whatever the case may be, here is what you can expect if you are about to have a urine drug test:

1. Have Proper Identification With You

Aside from filling out the necessary paperwork when you first arrive at the clinic or laboratory, you are also going to need to prove that you are who you say you are. Therefore, make sure that you don't leave your driver's license, government ID, or employer-issued ID at home. A passport will also suffice.

2. Remove All Personal Items.

When it is your turn to go back for your drug test, the first thing that you will be asked to do is to remove your jacket (if you have one on), put down your purse, and remove all personal items from your person (such as your pockets). Your belongings will either be placed in a locked location or will be watched over by a staff member.

3. Thoroughly Wash Your Hands.

The next thing that will be asked of you is to thoroughly wash your hands with both soap and water. This is simply to ensure that your hands are free from any dirt and debris that could contaminate the specimen that you are about to provide the lab.

4. Provide Your Urine.

Now it is time to step into the bathroom and do your thing. You will not be allowed to turn on the water and wash your hands until you give your specimen collection to a member of the staff. They will then ensure that the specimen is adequate for testing. Once it has been determined to be valid, you will be allowed to wash your hands and collect your belongings. As long as the laboratory doesn't need anything else from you, you should be free to go.

Drug testing is quick and painless. It is not designed to be a scary process, though it can get your stomach in knots if you don't know what to expect. For more information, contact a center such as Pecos Drug Testing.