Precautions to Take While Conducting Multi-panel Drug Test Kits

Multi-panel drug test kits are used in many places to detect the presence of different drugs in the human system. These tests indicate the drug use by testing the urine sample of the concerned person. There are few precautions one needs to take while conducting drug tests or drug testing themselves, in order to prevent false positives or false negatives. Let us see what they are.

• The first thing is the package of the device. If you find any tampering or if the seal is broken, it is always better not to use that kit and hence should be sent back to the retailer.
• No single component of the kit is meant for consumption and it is strictly for external use hence do not swallow anything from the kit.
• All the test kits are single use disposable, they become non-functional once they are used, so dispose the kit after using it for the first time.
• Check for the expiry date of the kit. Don't use the kits which are going to expire in few days or weeks and don't even look at expired kits.
• Follow the instructions which are mentioned in the booklet given with the kit to get accurate results.
• Get a timer and check for the accurate time. Don't assume the time, which could lead to false results. Also make sure that the timer is well functioning.
• The sample should be collected into the specimen cup provided or any other plastic container which is sterilized. Don't use metal containers as they may interact with the chemicals in the test strip.
• Make sure that the sample is not adulterated by making necessary arrangements. Don't try to freeze or warm up the sample.
• The minimum amount of sample should be collected and while immersing the strip in to the sample, the level should not cross the 'MAX' line on the strip.
• Results should be read exactly at five minutes after removing the strip from the sample and not after or before the time.
• In case, if you want to save the sample for further lab confirmation, seal the cup properly and store it at 4 degrees C to 30 degrees, but never refrigerate.
• Keep the sample away from moisture or direct sunlight.

By following above precautions you can get accurate results.

How to Help Your Older Adult Get Out of Drug Abuse?

It is often known that people get used to alcohol and drug abuse for many reasons. Even older adults get addicted to drugs and suffer from serious health issues. In spite of their weak health conditions, they often get used to drugs. With lower metabolic rates, the illegal drugs and their metabolites retain in their body for a longer time making them sensitive to serious and long-term health effects. However, it is necessary for you to help them turn away from drug abuse. Go through to know some tips for achieving this.

More often older people use drugs when they are left alone at home. So, make sure that you do not leave them alone. Try to spend time with them and talk about your worries about their substance abuse. Explain them that using drugs and alcohol at that age is really harmful to their health. If possible, ask them to go to doctor visits. Otherwise try to consult the doctor yourself and seek suggestions on how to quit the substance abuse problem in the older adults. Schedule meetings with healthcare professionals to provide counseling for them. Also, motivation and encouragement from family helps to turn them away from substance abuse.

Advise drug-free and alcohol-free activities for them. For instance, take them for a walk along a park in the evenings. Give support and encourage them to make time for grand children, family gatherings, friends and other extracurricular activities. Design an established daily routine which includes activities that promote healthy living and thereby reduce the adverse effects of substance abuse.