Drug Screenings

Drug screenings are standard requirements for employment, sports participation, and some surgeries. With an on-site lab, Taiwo Adebayo, NP, and her team offer a wide range of drug screenings at On Time Urgent Care, LLC, in Columbus, Ohio. In-house lab testing allows you to get all the care you need under one roof. Call the office or schedule an appointment online today if you need a drug screening.

What is a drug screening?

A drug screening is a test that detects signs of illegal or prescription substances in your blood, urine, sweat, saliva, or hair. Many drugs are identifiable through screenings, including:

• Opioids (heroin, oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, fentanyl, etc.)
• Alcohol
• Amphetamines
• Marijuana
• Steroids
• Cocaine
• Barbiturates
• Phencyclidine (PCP)

How long a drug stays in your system depends on many things, like the type of drug used, its dosage, and the time between the use and the screening.

Why might I need a drug screening?

Drug screenings are standard and often required for the following situations:

Employment

Many employers require drug screenings for their employees. Drug screenings are especially standard for safety-sensitive jobs like commercial truck drivers, police officers, and manufacturing workers.

Some sports

Individuals participating in competitive sports often need drug screenings to check for illegal substance use and performance-enhancing drugs.

Presurgery

Your doctor might order a drug screening before clearing you for surgery. Some medications can interfere with the success of a procedure. Taking precautions is necessary to protect your health during surgery.

Drug treatment

Routine drug screenings can monitor your progress during rehabilitative treatment and help you stay on track in recovery.

How can I prepare for a drug screening?

A few precautions before your drug screening can help ensure a successful experience. Before your screening, you should:

• Stay hydrated
• Avoid prohibited substances (illegal drugs, illicit prescriptions, etc.)
• Understand the testing policy
• Arrive a few minutes early

Inform your tester when you arrive of any prescription medications and supplements you take.

What can I expect during a drug screening?

The way your tester conducts a drug screening depends on the type you need. Most screenings require a urine sample, but you might need additional forms of testing if you’re screening for substances beyond the standard scope. Urinalysis screenings typically take only a few minutes.

While you can expect privacy during the screening, your tester might be required to observe you during the test.

What happens after a drug screening?

Some drug screening results are available immediately after the test, while others can take a few days to a week. Your tester informs you of the results as soon as they’re available.

Call On Time Urgent Care, LLC, or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about drug screenings.