Myth vs. Fact
Myth
Drug tests are often inaccurate, leading to false-positive results for students who do not use drugs.
Fact
A drug test result that wrongly indicates the presence of a drug or drugs is a false-positive. By design, the testing process minimizes inaccurate reporting of results. When testing protocols are followed, false-positives are extremely rare.
In many cases, schools conduct the initial test on site. If the initial test shows the sample is negative, no further testing is required. If the initial test shows the sample might be nonnegative, the sample is forwarded to a certified laboratory for detailed analysis.
These laboratories conduct sophisticated, highly accurate gas chromatographic and mass spectrometric analyses to identify compounds in the samples and rule out any false-positives. At this stage, even the presence of metabolites, which indicate prior drug use, does not automatically trigger a nonnegative result. Instead, results are forwarded to a medical review officer (MRO), usually a physician certified in drug testing. The MRO discusses the test results with the student and his or her family to establish if the student is taking any over-the-counter medication or medication prescribed by a physician. Then, and only then, does the MRO make a determination about the test result. By following these steps, schools and students can have confidence in the test results.