1. Purpose:
- Identifies recent use of drugs and alcohol, promoting a safe and drug-free environment.
2. Components:
3. Testing Process:
- Conducted in a certified laboratory, this test includes both routine screening and necessary confirmation testing for accurate results.
4. Detection Window:
- Generally detects drugs for approximately three days post-use, while EtG can indicate alcohol use up to 80 hours or longer, depending on consumption.
5. Result Interpretation:
- Positive results indicate recent substance use; confirmatory testing is required for any positive screens.
6. Applications:
- Ideal for workplace drug testing, rehabilitation programs, and pre-employment screenings.
7. Compliance:
- Meets industry standards for comprehensive substance testing.
This test serves as an effective tool for monitoring substance use, helping organizations maintain a safe workplace.
Why would I need the 5-Panel Urine Drug + ETG Test?
This combined test may be required for several reasons:
Pre-employment screening: Employers may use this test to screen candidates for drug and recent alcohol use before hiring them for safety-sensitive positions.
Random workplace testing: Employers often conduct random testing to maintain a drug—and alcohol-free work environment and ensure compliance with workplace policies.
Post-accident testing: If an employee is involved in a workplace accident, the test can determine whether drugs or alcohol played a role.
Reasonable suspicion testing: If an employee's behavior, appearance, or smell suggests that they are impaired by drugs or alcohol, this test can confirm or rule out substance use.
Monitoring sobriety: The ETG test is beneficial for monitoring abstinence in individuals participating in recovery programs or as part of probation or legal agreements.
Return-to-duty and follow-up testing: This test ensures compliance before resuming safety-sensitive responsibilities for employees returning to work after a violation or treatment program.
How do I prepare for the 5-Panel Urine Drug + ETG Test?
Preparation for the test involves a few steps:
Avoid alcohol consumption: Refrain from consuming alcohol for at least 48-80 hours before the test to avoid a positive result for the ETG component.
Avoid alcohol-containing products: Since ETG tests can detect even small amounts of alcohol, avoid using products like mouthwash, cough syrups, or sanitizers that contain alcohol before the test.
Medication disclosure: Inform the testing provider about any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking, as some may affect the results. A Medical Review Officer (MRO) will review any positive result to determine if there is a legitimate medical explanation.
Hydration: Drink a normal amount of water before the test, but avoid excessive hydration, as diluted urine samples may require retesting.
What do the results of the 5-Panel Urine Drug + ETG Test indicate?
Negative result:
Indicates that none of the substances in the 5-panel drug test or ETG (alcohol metabolite) were detected, and the individual is cleared.
Positive result:
Indicates the presence of one or more substances or alcohol (ETG) in the urine. If a positive result occurs:
A Medical Review Officer (MRO) will review the results and contact you to discuss any legitimate medical explanations (e.g., prescription medications).
If there is no valid explanation, the result is confirmed as positive, and depending on employer policies or legal requirements, you may face disciplinary actions, removal from safety-sensitive duties, or referral to a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP).
Inconclusive or invalid result:
If the sample is inconclusive or invalid, a retest may be required.
What happens if my test results are positive for drugs or alcohol (ETG)?
Drug Test Positive:
A Medical Review Officer (MRO) will contact you to verify any legitimate medical reasons for the positive result. If no valid reason is found, you may face disciplinary actions or removal from duty, depending on your employer’s policies.
ETG Test Positive:
A positive ETG result indicates recent alcohol use. If you are required to maintain abstinence from alcohol (e.g., as part of an agreement, recovery program, or legal requirement), a positive result could lead to consequences such as further evaluation, treatment programs, or disciplinary action based on the policies in place.
