How to Handle a Presumptive Positive Like a Pro

You’re managing a solid team and everything’s running smoothly until you get that call. One of your employees just had a presumptive positive on a drug test. Now what?

This is one of those moments where what you do next matters. The way you handle the situation can either protect your workplace or create confusion. A presumptive positive doesn’t always mean someone has used illegal drugs, but it is the trigger point for a very specific process. And when you work with a lab that handles things quickly and clearly, like Fastest Labs of Meridian, you can feel confident that the next steps will be handled with speed and accuracy.

Verification Comes First

As soon as a presumptive positive pops up in one of our screenings, our trained lab staff will reach out to you directly. We’ll let you know it’s not yet a confirmed positive and explain what happens next. This is your moment to pause and let the process run its course.

We’ll pass the original urine sample to a federally certified lab for confirmation testing. The test will go through review by a licensed Medical Review Officer or MRO. If the federal lab confirms the result is negative, you’ll typically hear back in just a couple of days. But if more detailed testing is needed, the process can stretch a bit longer.

Here’s an important note. Sometimes the MRO can tell just from the result if the cause is a legal prescription drug. If they can’t, they’ll reach out directly to the employee—several times if needed. This gives the employee a fair opportunity to share pharmacy information and clear things up.

Handle It Privately and Respectfully

As the employer, your next move is just as important as the testing process. Reach out to the employee privately. Be clear, respectful, and above all, keep the matter confidential.

This isn’t a time for assumptions. Until you receive confirmed results, it’s best to keep conversations neutral and focus on following your company policy. Respecting employee privacy protects you legally, but it also shows your team you take professionalism seriously.

What About Support and Rehabilitation?

If the test comes back confirmed positive and is not tied to a legitimate prescription, it’s time to move forward with the next part of your drug-free workplace program. Some companies choose termination. Others offer a second chance through employee assistance programs or treatment plans.

The key is to be consistent with your policies and always document everything. Helping a valued employee recover and return to work can be a great long-term investment in your team culture.

Partnering With Fastest Labs of Meridian for Fast Clear Results

We’ve built our reputation around fast results, clean procedures, and total professionalism. Our clients in the Treasure Valley count on us for accurate results and same-day communication. We know how important it is to get answers quickly while keeping standards high.

When a presumptive positive happens, you won’t be left wondering what to do next. Our trained team walks you through every step, from testing to MRO review. We also help businesses build clear drug testing policies that hold up under real-world conditions. Whether you need random testing, post-accident support, or help designing a full testing program, we’ve got you covered!

We work with businesses across Meridian and the Treasure Valley to build safer, stronger workplaces. Let us help you do the same.

Want to set up a reliable testing program or review your current policy? Visit Fastest Labs of Meridian to connect with our local team.