Drug testing is a common practice implemented across many industries and situations, from pre-employment screenings to randomized testing of at-risk individuals to discourage drug use. Two of the most widely used types of drug tests are urine and blood tests.

While both of these tests are designed to detect the presence of illicit substances in a person’s system, there are significant differences in the procedures, types of substances detected, and accuracy of each of these options.

Understanding the differences between a urine and a drug test can help you and your company decide which method suits your requirements and how this form of drug testing will affect your employees.

Ready to distinguish and make an informed decision between blood and urine drug tests? Delve into our comprehensive guide to learn everything you need to know to make the right choice and how AMH Nationwide makes accurate, simple drug testing processes accessible to everyone.

What Is Drug Testing and Why Does It Matter?

Drug testing is a screening procedure carried out across a number of industries as well as specialized circumstances. Drug testing involves using medical or biological means to detect the presence of illicit substances and drugs in a person’s system.

The most common drug tests involve testing an individual’s urine, blood, saliva, hair, or sweat. These tests can detect a wide variety of substances, including illegal drugs like cocaine or methamphetamine, alcohol, and certain pharmaceutical drugs.

By conducting randomized and pre-employment drug testing, business owners can ensure their employees and workplace remain drug-free. Not only does this help businesses maintain productivity but reduce the incidence of workplace accidents due to drug use or abuse.

Understanding the Difference Between Urine and Blood Drug Testing

As the name suggests, the main difference between a urine and blood drug test is the fluid that is tested. A urine drug test involves testing a urine sample while a blood test involves testing a blood sample.

However, to choose which test is best suited to your workplace and requirements, there are numerous other differences to consider.

Procedure

One of the biggest differences between blood and urine drug tests is the procedure. A blood drug test requires the person being tested to have their blood drawn by a medical professional. The blood is labeled and then sent to a lab for testing.

A urine drug test requires the person being tested to collect a urine sample either alone or under supervision, depending on the circumstances and environment in which they’re being tested. Once collected, the urine is also labeled and sent to a lab.

Compared to a urine drug test, a blood drug test is far more invasive and painful. Many employees may object to regular or pre-employment blood tests as it can seem like too much trouble or too great an invasion of their privacy,

Detection Times

The amount of time during which traces of a drug are detectable in a person’s body after they have used the drug is called the detection time. A blood drug test typically screens for traces of the original drug that was taken. As the body often quickly breaks down and metabolizes most drugs and alcohol, the detection time for blood drug tests is much smaller and only accurate between two to 12 hours after use.

In comparison, a urine drug test can detect the original drug as well as its metabolites, which means its detection time is much longer than a blood test. Depending on the type of drug being tested for and how quickly the person’s body metabolizes it, a urine test can detect recent and past drug misuse for a few days, or a few weeks for marijuana use.

However, while a blood test can detect even current intoxication, urine tests are only effective several hours after use.

Accuracy

Blood drug tests are known to be some of the most accurate drug tests available to detect substances within a person’s system. Although urine drug tests are also highly effective, in rare cases they may give false positives or negatives depending on the conditions under which they were taken.

Types of Substances Detected

Both blood and urine drug tests can detect the following substances, among others:

• Amphetamines
• Benzodiazepines
• Barbiturates
• Cocaine
• THC (marijuana)
• Opiates
• Oxycodone
• Methadone
• Alcohol
• Fentanyl

Cost and Practicality

When it comes to cost and practicality, urine drug tests are the clear winner. Although blood drug tests are more accurate and can be used to detect current drug use, they are invasive and more expensive than other alternatives.

For some, blood drug tests can be a painful, unsettling experience, making them less likely to want to comply. On the other hand, urine drug tests from AMH Nationwide are not only cost-effective but minimally invasive, making them easy to administer without infringing on your employees’ privacy or comfort.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Drug Test

For business owners, concerned parents, and government agencies, there is much to consider when deciding on the type of drug tests to use, including:

• How many people need to be tested
• How often testing must be carried out
• What type of drugs and drug use patterns you are screening for
• The privacy laws and regulations applicable in your state or county

How AMH Nationwide Makes Workplace Drug Testing Easier

While both blood and urine drug tests have their distinct advantages, urine tests are the preferred choice for many reasons:

• They detect the same range of substances as a blood test.
• They are reliable and accurate.
• They are cheaper and less invasive than blood tests.
• They are more accessible and easy to use, making them perfect for regular or bulk testing.

That’s why AMH Nationwide offers a highly effective and accurate five-panel urine drug test that screens for the most commonly abused drugs in a non-invasive, easy-to-carry-out manner.

For more information on our range of drug tests, and to access the tests that best suit your business or circumstances, get in touch with us today.