[ DRUGS OF ABUSE ]
Are the rapid drug tests as accurate as GC/MS?
Our drug tests are qualitative, which means it only determines the presence of drugs at detection limits comparable to SAMHSA cut-off concentration. GC/MS, which costs more, quantifies the concentration of drugs in the sample. Given the purposes of most drug testing (pre-employment, post-accident, random) is to detect the presence of drug use and not determine the amounts ingested, our rapid drug test satisfies the needs of almost all Drug Screening Programs.
What is the shelf life of the on-site test devices?
Our test devices have a shelf life of 18 months from the date of manufacture. The expiration date of each lot of devices is indicated on each individual foil pouch and can be used up until that date.
[ PREGNANCY AND OVULATION ]
How soon can I test?
It has been stated that tests of this sensitivity can detect a pregnancy as soon as 7 days past ovulation. But keep in mind that implantation must first take place before hCG is released. Implantation takes place between 6-12 days past ovulation with 7-9 days being the average. It is recommended to wait until at least 9-12 days past ovulation and even then there is a chance that you are testing too early and could still get a false negative. If you continue to get a negative result but feel that you could be pregnant, please consult your doctor.
Must I use first morning urine for the pregnancy test?
If you are testing early (prior to missing your period) it is definitely recommended that you use first morning urine. First morning urine contains the highest level of hCG because it is the most concentrated. If you do test later in the day it is a good idea to hold your urine for at least 3-4 hours prior to testing. Drinking too many fluids prior to testing can dilute your urine and is not suggested.
[ ALCOHOL ]
What is the major difference between ALCO-SCREEN and ALCO-SCREEN 02?
Both ALCO-SCREEN and ALCO-SCREEN 02 are saliva tests, which are intended to be used as a rapid method to detect the presence of alcohol in saliva.
The major difference is that ALCO-SCREEN provides a semi-quantitative approximation of blood alcohol concentration and it takes 2 minutes to be interpreted.
The ALCO-SCREEN 02 can positively identify the presence of alcohol in saliva for blood alcohol concentrations greater than 0.02%, however, it takes slightly longer (approx. 4 minutes) to be interpreted.
[ CHOLESTEROL ]
How can I reduce cholesterol?
To reduce cholesterol in your blood, eat foods that are low in saturated fat and cholesterol, lose weight if necessary and exercise 30-40 minutes on most days of the week.
What are the measures of the cholesterol levels?
Desired Blood Cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dL Borderline High Blood Cholesterol: 200 to 239 mg/dL High Blood Cholesterol: 240 mg/dL and over
If your total cholesterol level is greater than 240 or more, your risk of heart attack and stroke is greater. In general for those people who has 240 mg/dL have twice the risk of heart attack as people who have a cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL.
[ GLUCOSE ]
What is plasma glucose test?
It is also known as blood sugar test. This 3-minute test can show early identification of abnormal plasma glucose concentration, which can be a sign of diabetes or other medical problems.
What are the measures of plasma glucose levels?
Abnormally low level: 50 mg/dL (2.8 mmol/l) or less Normal level: 60 to 100 mg/dl range Abnormally high level: 125 mg/dL (6.9 mmol/l) or highe.
[ URINALYSIS ]
What are normal test results?
The color varies from colorless to dark yellow. Certain foods may stain it. The specific gravity ranges from 1.006 to 1.030. The higher the number, the more concentrated the urine. The pH level, or relative acidity or alkalinity ranges from 4.6 to 8.0. The average is 6.0, which is slightly acidic. Sugars, ketones, and proteins are not present for normal results. The blood has no hemoglobin (red blood cells) or white blood cells present. Bilirubin is also not present.
What are abnormal test results?
The colors are abnormal when it doesn’t fall in the normal range. The specific gravity is higher than 1.006 or lower than 1.030. This may indicate kidney disorders. Exceptions are those related to food or liquid intake. The pH level is overly acidic or alkaline urine. The sugar and ketones are usually tested together: High levels of glucose and ketones may indicate diabetes. Any protein present may indicate kidney disorders. Any blood present may indicate bleeding from the kidney, a urinary tract infection, or trauma from rigorous exercise. If any bilirubin is present, this indicates liver or bile duct disease. If nitrites and white blood cells are present, this indicates a urinary tract infection.